The Wayne Township Fire Department in Indianapolis announced Engineer Richard “Hank” Potter has died in the line of duty on May 10 due to work-related cancer.

Potter started as a volunteer firefighter with the department in June of 1987 and was appointed a career firefighter in 1999, the department said in a Facebook post.

Potter was assigned as engineer on Ladder 82 B-shift until his death. During his career, Potter was awarded the Medal of Bravery, the Medal of Merit, the Community Service Award, and seven-unit commendations.

Potter took great pride in his military service, especially his combat tour in Afghanistan. He served honorably for 25 years in the Indiana National Guard receiving numerous awards and medals, retiring as a Staff Sergeant.