Virginia’s Fire & Rescue Heroes Earned Our Respect

By DELEGATE RICH ANDERSON

In late May, Gov. Robert F. McDonnell proclaimed June 2-8 as the first-ever Fire and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Memorial Week in Virginia.

Just last week, our country and Commonwealth remembered on Memorial Day those soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who have given their lives in defense of the nation. It is fitting that we also honor

those who have given their lives as members of Virginia’s Fire and EMS community.

During this inaugural commemoration, Virginia will honor firefighters and EMS personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their neighbors, their communities, and their fellow citizens.

Additionally, it is an appropriate time to remember the more than 200 firefighters and EMS personnel who have been recognized by the Virginia Line of Duty Death Act since 1883.

Today, the work of these fallen heroes is carried on by more than 36,000 EMS providers and 125,171 career and volunteer firefighters throughout the Commonwealth. In 2012, these valiant Virginians responded to 79,000 fire calls and 1,217,791 EMS calls.

In our own region, we remember Paramedic Joshua Weissman of the Alexandria Fire Department, who gave his life on February 9, 2012. We also remember Technician Mark Baban of the Fairfax County Fire Department, who made the ultimate sacrifice on January 30, 2012.

In Prince William County, we are blessed by the splendid public service of our own Department of Fire and Rescue, consisting of more than 500 personnel led by an outstanding and dedicated public servant, Chief Kevin J. McGee.

During Fire and EMS Memorial Week, all citizens are encouraged to remember fire and emergency medical personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community and to pay their respects to the survivors of our fallen heroes.

These heroes have earned our lasting respect. We should give no less.