A memorial ceremony was held on Tuesday to honour Calgary firefighters who were killed in the line of duty or who died from illnesses related to their jobs.
The event was at the Police Officers and Firefighters Tribute Plaza and a bell was rung in honour of each fallen member.
Mayor Nenshi and other dignitaries joined the families of the fallen firefighters to remember their sacrifices.
“We honour those that are no longer with us and we take comfort in knowing they live on in the hearts of the families who supported them and the firefighters who worked alongside them,” said Mayor Nenshi in a release.
47 firefighters were honoured; nine who were killed in the line of duty and 38 who died from illness related to firefighting.
Two plaques were added to the memorial this year for District Chief James Brosh and Captain Paul Baker, who both died from occupational cancer.
“Firefighters serve the community in many ways, everything from attending motor vehicle accidents, spills, critical medical interventions, and, of course, fires,” said Calgary Fire Chief Steve Dongworth in a statement following the ceremony. “We know we can never repay their sacrifice but by reading the names of those who have fallen aloud today we can honour their commitment and dedication in making our city a better place to live.”
The service included a moment of silence and wreath ceremony and was open to the public.
Fire stations across the city also lowered their flags on Tuesday in recognition of the service.
