London firefighters, wearing their dress uniforms, gathered Monday for a somber ceremony honouring those who have lost their lives in the line of duty serving the city and those who died in the September 11 terrorist attack 16 years ago.
Other emergency workers, local politicians, and civilians also attended the memorial ceremony held at the fire department's headquarters on Horton St.
A moment of silence followed the ringing of the three bells and the presentation of two Martin E. Pierce Commemorative Medals.
London Professional Fire Fighters Association President Jason Timlick awarded the medals to the families of Fire Chief Robert Barr and Fire Prevention Chief Dave Varey. Barr and Varey died of occupational diseases in 2000 and 2004. Their names will be inscribed on the fire department's memorial monument in the coming weeks.
Jean Varey said it was a very important to have her husband of 37 years recognized for all of his years of service.
"It brings back many memories," said Varey.
LPFFA President Jason Timlick presents Martin E. Pierce Commemorative Medals to the families of Fire Chief Robert Barr and Fire Prevention Chief Dave Varey. (Photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)
Barr's daughter Lisa Barr called the award "a real honour."
"Dad gave his life to the job," said Barr. "He would come home from a day at work and be thinking what he could do better on the job. He always worried about it. It was a hard job."
Barr intends to give the medal to her mother, who was unable to attend Monday's ceremony. Varey said she will display her husband's medal for family and friends to see within her home, although she hasn't decided on an exact spot yet.
The ceremony was also a time to honour the bravery of the firefighters and other first responders who risked their lives in New York when hijacked planes slammed into the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Of the nearly 3,000 people killed in the attacks, 343 were firefighters.
Timlick said the comradery shown that day and at the countless ceremonies to remember the fallen that have followed are just a small look at the strong bond firefighters have.
"It's a brother and sisterhood that starts the moment you start the job and get inducted into our association. We are one big family, we look out for each other, we support each other, we protect each other and that enables us to go out and service the communities and help protect them," said Timlick.
