GovWire

Firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty were remembered today (26 June 2015) at a memorial service held at Carter Lane Gardens, St Pauls Cathedral, attended by Fire Minister Mark Francois.

Following the service, the minister laid a wreath on behalf of the government for all fallen firefighters and paid tribute to their sacrifice.

The minister said the ceremony at the memorial, which comes during Armed Forces Week, was an opportunity to remember the huge sacrifice of our armed forces and home emergency services in keeping Britain safe.

Fire Minister Mark Francois said:

It is an honour to lay a wreath on behalf of the government in memory of our brave firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

During Armed Forces Week it is especially important we remember the sacrifice and contribution of our home emergency services who have paid the ultimate price to protect our community. I pay tribute to all of them.

Events are being held up and down the country to mark Armed Forces Week. Guildford will host the national event on 27 June 2015 with a flag raising ceremony at the Guildhall. The flag will also be raised on buildings and famous landmarks around the country including 10 Downing Street and other government departments on Whitehall.

The government has already enshrined in law the Armed Forces Covenant which sets out the relationship between the nation, the government and the armed forces.

Further information

The memorial service of remembrance takes place annually each year and is organised by the Firefighters Memorial Trust.

The Trust is a registered charity which exists to recognise the commitment and dedication of all members of the fire and rescue service serving within the UK, particularly those who have been killed or who have died following injury or illness, as a result of their duties.

The Firefighters Memorial depicts a fire officer and 2 firefighters, cast in bronze engaged in firefighting duties. It was originally called Blitz and was dedicated to the men and women of the fire service who lost their lives as a result of their duties during World War II. Her Majesty, the late Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, unveiled this memorial on 4 May 1991.

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