Honoring Fallen Firefighters, Preparing as Individuals

This past Sunday, as part of the 2010 Fire Prevention Week, I had the privilege of delivering remarks on behalf of President Obama at the National Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial, as we recognized and honored 105 firefighters who paid the ultimate sacrifice.  Here’s a short excerpt:

To the families of those we’ve lost, the thoughts and prayers of a grateful nation are with you.

Firefighters are among the first called to any emergency – and it is a call they selflessly rush to meet. Whether for a fire, a highly specialized rescue, or emergency medical services, the men and women of our nation’s fire services are there, serving their communities in a moment of need. Day after day, in towns and cities across this country, they are fighting structural fires or wildfires, or protecting our troops, bringing relief from fear, from danger, from the hazards of our world.


It takes a certain type of individual to be willing to rush into a burning building as everyone else is trying to get out.  As we remember the sacrifices firefighters and first responders make, along with their families, we as individuals have our own responsibility to make sure our own homes are protected, and the best thing you can do is make sure you have a working smoke alarm in your home.
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Evan Bayh Chuck Grassley Tom Harkin Sam Brownback Pat Roberts