Real Heroes Don't Wear Capes'
SUSAN NICOL ON OCT 13, 2014
EMMITSBURG, MD – Amidst the hugs and tears, there also were smiles Sunday as the nation’s fire service paused to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.
A plaque bearing the names of 107 firefighters was unveiled during the annual National Fallen Firefighters’ Memorial Service. They include 98 who perished in 2013, and nine previously.
Bagpipers and more than 150 uniformed personnel marched before the crowd to open the ceremonies, attended by thousands.
“Real heroes don’t wear capes. Go to your local fire stations. They’re the real heroes,” FEMA Director Craig Fugate told the crowd, adding that the only time firefighters wear masks is when they're donning equipment to do their jobs, to save lives.
Fugate promised the survivors that their loved ones will never be forgotten.
In a televised message, President Obama said too many firefighters are dying in the line of duty. While he mentioned the loss of 19 hotshots in Arizona and the 10 in West, he said he joins the nation in remembering all.
“They represent what’s best about America,” he said.
Dan Parker, whose son, Wade, was one of the Granite Mountain Hotshots remembered Sunday, said of the ceremony: “As usual, the fire service has out done itself. It was incredible…absolutely beautiful.”
Michelle Parker added that she’s appreciated the assistance offered by the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation.
From the onset, they’ve never felt alone as people who’ve been through it have reached out, and stayed in touch. “We are so appreciative,” she said. “We can never express how thankful we are.”
The parents recalled proudly how their son loved the outdoors, and “exciting and dangerous things.”
“His first year he was named Rookie of the Year,” his mother said. “He loved his crew. He talked about them all the time.
Bedford, N.H. Chief Scott Wiggin found it difficult to really describe how he felt after the moving memorial service that included a tribute to Lt. James Clark.
“He loved to run, and was very athletic,” Wiggin said. “Often, he ran 12 miles from his home to the fire station. He’d always get there before 7, and stop by the office to say hi. He wasn’t breathing hard or sweating.”
Wiggin said he and the members of his departments were stunned to learn that Clark had been found unresponsive at his home not long after his shift. “We’d run some medical calls and automatic alarms, but nothing really big.”
The chief added that many have stepped up to the plate to assist since Clark’s untimely death.
While there have been memorials, he said the one Sunday capped it. “What a finishing touch. What an honor…”
Thomas “TC” Nors, who was headed to the fertilizer plant in West when it exploded, said he was impressed and honored. “They did a super job…”
http://youtu.be/deo60G-6PnA