Fire stations fall silent to mark Firefighters’ Memorial Day

Serving firefighters at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service are to hold a minute’s silence on Tuesday, May 4 at midday to mark Firefighters’ Memorial Day.

Firefighters and staff from across the 17 regional community fire stations will mark the memorial day, which acts as a national tribute to commemorate the sacrifice made by those individuals who have lost their lives in the line of duty, when helping to save the lives of others.

Nationally 2,524 members of the fire and rescue service have died while protecting the public.

International Firefighters’ Day is also celebrated on May 4 with the intention of commemorating the dedication, commitment and sacrifices of firefighters everywhere.

Chris Lowther, Chief Fire Officer for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Being a firefighter and serving your local community is a privilege. It is a badge of honour all firefighters, serving and retired, wear with pride and carry forever in our hearts.

“Firefighters’ Memorial Day is a fitting way for us to remember our fallen comrades, who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

"The courage required to tackle a rescue situation is colossal, and those brave individuals have put the lives of others, before their own.

"We will always be indebted to their heroism; and the families, friends and loved ones who they have left behind, will to, be in our thoughts.”

The commemorative day is organised by the Firefighters Memorial Trust, and supported by the Fire Brigades Union and the National Fire Chiefs Council.

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