August 25, 2017
Regina, Saskatchewan
As a tribute to the firefighters who risk their lives to keep Canadians safe, today, the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister for Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, announced the formal establishment of Firefighters’ National Memorial Day.
Minister Goodale was accompanied by Michael Fougere, Mayor of Regina; Robert Kirkpatrick, President of the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation; Lloyd Zwack, President of the Saskatchewan Professional Fire Fighters Association, on behalf of the International Association of Fire Fighters; Ken Block, Fire Chief of the City of Edmonton, on behalf of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs; Richard Kent, Commissioner of Saskatchewan First Nations Emergency Management, on behalf of the Aboriginal Firefighters Association of Canada; Graham Pawlett, National President of the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association; Serge Poulin, Strategic Planning Manager of the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre.
The second Sunday in September of each year is now designated in memory of firefighters who have fallen in the line of duty. On that day, the Canadian flag will be half-masted on all federal buildings and establishments.
The Government of Canada recognizes the dangers firefighters often face when carrying out their duties, and the ultimate sacrifice of firefighters who have given their lives in the line of duty.
Firefighters’ National Memorial Day will commemorate their courage, their selflessness, and their unwavering commitment to serving our communities.
