Dignitaries, Calgarians and the families of the fallen sat shoulder to shoulder to honour 36 firefighters who gave their lives to serve others at the 8th annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial service on Tuesday.
Mayor Naheed Nenshi, city councillors and citizens, joined the Fire Department families to remember Calgary firefighters who died while fighting fire or because of illnesses related to their job.
“Today we honour those first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Mayor Nenshi “We remember Calgary’s fallen firefighters—important public servants—who died due to the hazards they faced protecting the citizens of this city.”
The event included a moment of silence, a wreath laying ceremony and ringing of the bell in honour of each fallen firefighter.
“It is my hope, that all firefighters learn something from the brave people we are honouring today,” said Fire Chief Ken Uzeloc. “I hope we are reminded that safety is always our priority; our safety and the safety of our teammates. I hope we continue to use the techniques we’ve been taught, that we continue to train and practice life-saving skills, and continue to keep our citizens, ourselves and our fellow firefighters safe with every call we respond to.”
Fire stations across the city have lowered their flags in recognition of the service.
Calgary’s Fire Department will also pay tribute to its 36 fallen members at the Canadian Firefighters Annual Memorial Ceremony in Ottawa on September 14th, 2014.
Last year, the Calgary Fire Department responded to more than 109,000 calls for firefighting services and other lifesaving assistance.
