Bells tolled and wreaths were laid at a ceremony Tuesday to honour 42 fallen Calgary firefighters.
Local politicians and members of the Calgary Fire Department joined families of fallen firefighters for an annual memorial in front of the municipal building.
“We are here today to honour those who have lost their lives while answering the call to serve,” said Mayor Nenshi. “These Calgary firefighters passed away due to their work protecting our city and our loved ones.”
Fire stations across the city lowered their flags to half-mast at sunrise Tuesday.
“When everyone else is running away from danger, these extraordinary people face that danger head-on,” said Fire Chief Steve Dongworth. “Today, in addition to mourning the loss of these courageous firefighters, we celebrate their service and thank them for being there and helping us through some of our darkest moments.”
Nine of the 42 firefighters died in the line of duty; many others lost their lives due to illness as a result of firefighting.
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