A memorial service for fallen firefighters who died in the line of duty was held yesterday in Accra to honor International Firefighters’ Day.
The celebration’s theme, which was “Recognizing the sacrifices of Firefighters and Our Fallen Heroes,” was commemorated around the world.
At the occasion, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) also began its 60th anniversary celebration.
Julius Aalebkure Kuunor, the Chief Fire Officer of the GNFS, stated that it was crucial to preserve the memories of the fallen fire officers in recognition of the sacrifices they made.
“What the general public is unaware of is the risk firemen take every minute to keep them safe.
“Their good works will follow them to their Maker, and we shall not forget them,” he continued.
Ambrose Dery, the interior minister, Kwame Anyimadu-Antwi, the chairman of the fire service council, directors of the GNFS, former chief fire officers, and a few surviving firefighters’ family members were all present at the occasion.
Prayers were performed for the deceased, who were also given a “Firefighter Coin” that had been specifically struck and had been etched with motifs and symbols that represented their bravery, heroism, and commitment to duty.
Among those honored was Recruit Fireman (RFM) Ebenezer Boakye, who on June 6, 2022, while attending to an emergency call in Obuasi, Ashanti Region, was involved in a car accident together with six other policemen.
Firefighters put their lives on the line frequently to serve the country, according to Mr. Kuunor, who praised their bravery and dedication.
He mentioned the recent fire at the Kumasi Kejetia Market, saying his troops battled tirelessly to stop it from spreading to higher floors.
Mr. Kuunor claimed that the Ministry of the Interior and the Fire Service Council were in the process of acquiring new working instruments, including dual-purpose trucks, rapid intervention vehicles (RIVs), and traffic-friendly firefighting motorcycles.
John Ekar Smart, the chief sales officer of GLICO Life Insurance Company, declared that the organization would keep cooperating closely with the GNFS and other stakeholders to advance the nation’s understanding of fire safety.
Ambrose Dery, the interior minister who officially kicked off the anniversary celebration, praised the firefighters for their unceasing efforts and commitment to the goal of protecting people’s lives and property.”60 years of existence: The role of the Ghana National Fire Service in national development” is the theme of the year-long commemoration.
According to Mr. Dery, the event provided a special chance to start over and change with the times in accordance with global firefighting standards.
According to the minister, firefighters are revered as heroes and heroines because they constantly risk their lives to protect the public.
“Many died in the line of duty, and those who are fortunate enough to have survived would have to live with scars and all forms of deformities for the rest of their lives,” he said.
