FREDERICK, MD -- Twenty-four years ago today, an eager Frederick County Fire/ Rescue Academy recruit started his third -- and last day.

First up on the agenda for the new recruits that day -- with a heat index of 96 --  was PT that included a half-mile walk, a 3.7-mile run, 15 to 20 minutes of calisthenics, and two sets of uphill wind sprints, each covering about 300 feet.

No water was provided to the recruits during the activity.

And, instructors didn't recognize that the heat was taking a toll on Recruit Class 6 although many were showing signs of distress.

Near the entrance to the training academy, Andrew 'Andy' Waybright, 23, complained of feeling dizzy and collapsed.

CPR was administered and he was transported to Frederick Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead. His core temperature was 107.6 degrees.

The cause of death was listed as hyperthermia.

On Thursday, members of Recruit Class 40 -- David Courtney and Zachary Lamb -- placed a wreath at his memorial in a plaza near where he collapsed

"This tragic day in the history of the Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services sparked needed changes in policy and procedures in training and how we operate in extreme environmental conditions," Capt. Dan Winters told recruits as they stood at attention on a day with higher temperatures than 24 years ago.

He was part of a firefighting family in nearby Carroll County. He was EMS captain at Harney Volunteer Fire Company, who also worked for Taneytown Volunteer Fire Company as the operator of a medic ambulance.

Winters told the class to look out for each other. 

"This job can be both physically and challenging. So, it's our duty to look out for each other...If someone seems out of sorts, ask them if they're OK, and offer them a hand..."

Having a positive attitude also will keep Waybright's memory alive.

"Be nice! Andy was known for his kind and caring nature. So, be nice to everyone you come in contact with. Life is too short."

Before asking for a moment of silence, Frederick County Fire Chief Tom Coe said Waybright is remembered every day not just on the anniversary of his death. 

The chief also encouraged the group to speak up.

"It's essential to keep an eye on each other..."

3 miles, including uphill wind sprints on what was only the second day of PT.