By ANDALE GROSS
Akron Beacon Journal
It was a time to honor 13 men who lost their lives after answering their last fire calls.
More than 100 people gathered outside Fire Station No. 4 on Thursday to remember the sacrifices of Akron’s fallen firefighters. Reflecting on the deceased honorees, city and fire officials emphasized how fortunate the community has been not to have more firefighters die on duty.
The last time a firefighter died at the scene was nearly 40 years ago.
``We’ve been blessed in Akron,’' Fire Chief Charles Gladman said, standing in front of a monument that lists the late firefighters and hangs outside the station on East Thornton Street.
Those at the ceremony said it is still important to assemble each year out of respect for fallen firefighters everywhere. Nationally, about 80 firefighters have died on duty so far this year, with the most recent occurring just more than a week ago in New York state, Gladman said.
``I address you today with a heavy heart, fully understanding that hundreds of ceremonies like this are being held in other parts of the country as we speak,’' he said to the crowd.
It was the 22nd year for the Akron ceremony. Following tradition, red carnations were placed on a wreath as the names of the fallen firefighters were read. Bells were sounded, symbolizing the last alarms the firefighters answered.
``We’re here to do three simple things: remember, honor and thank,’' Mayor Don Plusquellic said. ``We honor (the late firefighters) by remembering. And we thank their families.’'
Riane Beavers, 13, who sang the national anthem, said performing took on a special meaning since her father, John, is an Akron firefighter.
``It’s always possible when he leaves home that he’ll never come back,’' the girl said. ``It’s important to remember all the people who never came back.’'
Among those who never came back was firefighter Lawrence Labbe, who died along with fellow fireman John Nist in a November 1965 blaze on East Market Street.
``It was very traumatic,’' said Tom Labbe, who attended Thursday’s ceremony to honor his brother. ``It’s in my thoughts every day.’'
A retired firefighter himself, he said he was at the scene that day, too. Despite the tragedy, he takes solace in knowing that Lawrence Labbe died trying to save someone else.
``He loved the job,’' the proud sibling said.