Missouri Observes Fire Safety
Tribute Day Remembering those who Sacrificed
JEFFERSON CITY, April 12, 2006-Missouri’s fire
service honored three firefighters killed in the line of duty last
year during a special memorial service held at the state Capitol today.
Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder presented a proclamation on behalf of Gov. Matt
Blunt calling on Missourians to remember and give special tribute
to the brave firefighters who died while protecting our communities.
State Fire Marshal Randy Cole is privileged to lead
Missouri’s fire safety community and is humbled by their dedication
and willingness to serve as role models in public safety.
“Today we take time away from our frantic schedules
to remember those courageous firefighters who gave their life for
another,” said Cole. “We are eternally grateful to the
families of these heroic servants for the sacrifices they have endured.”
The 2005 Line of Duty Death Memorial Service was held
to honor those firefighters who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the
performance of their duties. In 2005, Missouri had three line of duty
deaths: Firefighter Timmy S. Hardy of the Neosho Fire Department,
Chief Robert Bestgen of the Osborn Fire Protection District, and Chief
Jerry Buehne of the Affton Fire Protection District.
Since the early 1800s, Missouri has lost over 300 firefighters
who served unselfishly to better our communities.