A tribute during Fire Prevention Week to firefighters killed in the line of duty attracted more than 200 attendees Wednesday despite thunderstorms that pummeled North Texas. Ceremonies for the Tarrant County College Fire Service Training Center’s first Fallen Firefighter Memorial Ceremony included firefighters from at least nine area fire departments.
“Today was a very emotional day for me. As a member of the Irving Fire Department, it is difficult and sobering knowing that some of my fellow firefighter brothers gave the ultimate sacrifice,” said Hilton Barlow. “Today’s service honored their sacrifice. TCC did a fantastic job.”
Other fire departments represented included Coppell, DFW Airport, Euless, Fort Worth, Hurst, Lake Worth, Saginaw and Southlake.
The names of the 89 firefighters killed in the line of duty in 2010 were read and 89 sets of bunker gear were displayed in their honor. Bunker gear includes the helmet, coat, pants, boots and gloves firefighters wear.
The ceremony also included a color guard, drums and bagpipes and a flyover by the PHI Medical Helicopter. Fire Prevention Week is always observed the week that includes Oct. 9 to commemorate the 1871 fire that destroyed Chicago.