August 12, 2007

Honor Guard performs at remembrance

       Firefighters from across the state held an annual remembrance ceremony behind the State Capitol Building on Friday, August 10th at the Indiana Law Enforcement and Firefighters Memorial in Indianapolis. Families of seven fallen firefighters from around the state came forward and laid red carnations atop a cauldron of white carnations, symbolizing the firefighters' sacrifice.  Governor Mitch Daniels spoke during the ceremony, thanking the firefighters and their families for their hard work and sacrifice.  Daniels also referenced the recent tragedy in Charleston, South Carolina, where nine firefighters, including one from Indiana, died in a large blaze. Daniels said, "Every such loss, wherever it happens, is a loss we feel."  The ceremony began with a firefighter honor guard and the playing of bagpipes.  It ended with the playing of "Taps."  Three volunteer firefighters died in the line of duty in 2006.  Other Dignitaries in attendance were Indiana State Fire Marshal Rodger Johnson and IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger.  To see a complete listing of Indiana’s fallen firefighters please visit the web site of the Professional Firefighters Union of Indiana by clicking HERE.
  

           
(Click on a thumbnail to enlarge photo)
   

---