Members of the Springfield Fire Department honored fallen firefighters and their families at a memorial ceremony on Monday.
The event, held outside the Worthington Street Fire Station, marked the second year the department has hosted this remembrance.
The ceremony acknowledged the 27 members of the Springfield Fire Department who have died in the line of duty or as a result of their service over the department’s 232 years. These losses occurred through fires, motor vehicle accidents and occupational cancers.
“These men paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting the citizens of Springfield,” said Springfield Fire Commissioner B.J. Calvi. “May their memory never be forgotten and their service never forgotten.”
Occupational cancers are identified as one of the leading causes of death for firefighters. The names engraved on the memorial include those of a chief, a lieutenant and numerous firefighters.
Daniel Tatro, who passed away on November 25, 1993, is listed as the most recent fallen member. Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno also shared his appreciation for the city’s firefighters, recognizing their courage to confront danger.
