Planting memories

Councilmember Tom LaBonge introduces John Loa, a 96-year-old survivor of the devastating 1933 Griffith Park brushfire, before helping with the planting of a memorial pine tree. He was joined by students from the Los Angeles Zoo Magnet School, park staff, and L.A. City Firefighters in planting the last of two trees in a grove dedicated to the memory of the fallen workers.  (Al Seib / LAT)

John Loa shakes hands with L.A. City Firefighter George Gomez and other Firefighters from Engine 35 L.A. City Fire Department. Loa came with his son 65-year-old Leonard Loa (right) to help with the planting of a memorial pine tree  (Al Seib / LAT)

John Loa (right) helps Councilmember Tom LaBonge plant a pine tree. Loa was one of a small crew of six fighting the 1933 Griffith Park brushfire beneath their feet when they were redirected by a supervisor to another location, a twist of fate as the wind changed direction and they were spared while others were not.  (Al Seib / LAT)

John Loa is the lone survivor of a group of men who battled the devastating blaze in Griffith Park in 1933 that claimed the lives of 29 men. “I often think back to that day and I am so thankful,” Loa said, “even though my feet got a little toasted.”  (Al Seib / LAT)