Each year on the Friday of National Fire Prevention Week, a small crowd gathers at Fire Station No. 1 Downtown to remember the lives and sacrifices of Jacksonville firefighters who died in the line of duty.
On Friday morning, Mayor Alvin Brown acknowledged the lives of the 22 firefighters who fell in the line of duty from
1885 to 2008.
He then proclaimed Oct. 14 “Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.”
“We have the best fire and rescue department in the country and as mayor, I’ll do everything I can to make sure we continue to have that,” he said.
JFRD Chief of Fire & Rescue Charles Moreland said the day is set aside each year to assist in the healing process for those who are grieving their lost loved ones.
“The 22 names that are on our wall are heroes who placed themselves in danger to help others. Firefighters will attempt to move heaven and earth to prevent a disaster or save a life. Firefighters sacrifice themselves and their families for the privilege to serve the community,” Moreland said.
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