TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)– The Terre Haute Police Department hosted dozens of community members for their annual fallen firefighter memorial on Sunday.
The ceremony included a performance by the Pipes and Drums band, a presentation of the colors for the fire department and several speakers, including Terre Haute Mayor Duke Bennett.
Terre Haute Fire Chief Bill Berry spoke at the event. He said it’s important to use this day to honor the memory of the firefighters who have passed.
“It’s a day of remembering. We never forgot any of our firefighters who have fallen in the line of duty. I’ve been 30 years, and we’ve had two, Ralph Scott and John Schoffstall.”
Schoffstall and Scott were among about 20 names who have died, either at the Terre Haute department or volunteer departments throughout Vigo County, since the 1880’s.
Berry, who read the roll call of the fallen firefighters names during the event, said the ceremony was a yearly reminder of the sacrifice firefighters make.
“It’s about never forgetting those guys, it’s what’s special to all of us,” he said.
This was the first time the THFD held a memorial for just firefighters, as in years past they did a first responder’s memorial in conjunction with the police department. He said they will continue doing a standalone event in October going forward.
