LIA LANDO
WIVB
Reprinted with Permission

BUFFALO, N.Y. - Hundreds gathered in Buffalo on Sunday for an annual memorial honoring firefighters.

Dozens gathered on Franklin Street Sunday morning to pay tribute to Buffalo firefighters who have lost their lives.

Firefighters, families and friends started the day with a prayer service at St. Joseph's Cathedral, then marched over to the Hyatt for a memorial breakfast.

"We've lost a total in the past year, 36 firefighters. Some of them retired."

"There are inherent risks and dangers in this job and it impacts us and our families."

The dangers of the job were all too evident about eight months ago, when two firefighters ran into a burning deli.

They thought someone was trapped in the basement but no one was inside.

Lt. Charles McCarthy and firefighter, Jonathan Croom didn't make it out alive.

The two were honored at Sunday's memorial service

"It brings back a lot of memories, a lot of sad memories."

News 4 spoke with Jonathan Croom's mother, Angie Heusinger about her loss and the memorial.

"My son would be so honored, so overwhelmed at the love and support," Angie expressed. "I want people to remember him for his great spirit, courage and love of human beings."

Although several firefighters have lost their lives over the years, officials said they do not want this day to be a day of mourning. Rather a day to remember and honor those who do so much.

"There's a sacrifice in doing this job and it often goes unnoticed, so at this time we celebrate the memory of those who are deceased."

Angie said events like this memorial help keep her son's spirit alive.

"The firefighter family are truly amazing. They live by that family spirit. They are with me everyday," she expressed.

Every year, the Buffalo Fire Department will host a memorial event to keep the memory of all past firefighters alive.

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