The Arkansas Fallen Firefighters' Memorial is unveiled and dedicated at a ceremony Saturday (Mar. 22) in Little Rock. The memorial is a place for people to remember and honor those who have died in the line of duty, now and for generations to come.
"Not only is it a beautiful monument, it's in the right spot," said Lt. Ray McCormack, Ladder 28 FDNY.
On a wall surrounding the Brooks Jackson Memorial Plaza, lie the names of more than one hundred men and women who have died in the line of duty.
Additional names will be added each year at an annual ceremony.
"The importance of this landmark is the fact that generations of not only firefighters, but regular civilians can come here and view this monument to see the sacrifice that it's built upon," McCormack said.
McCormack was the keynote speak. Governor Mike Beebe also spoke at the ceremony.
"While we honor the men and women who wear uniforms, whether it's in the military, it's in law enforcement, it's in the fire protection, wherever it may be, we need to take time out and honor the families as well," Beebe said.
Many families of the fallen attended the unveiling, including that of Julius Deiser, the first firefighter killed in the line of duty in Arkansas. Deiser died April 2, 1889 working for the Fort Smith Fire Department.
"Let's take a minute and say god bless to the family members who support and serve the man in the uniforms," Beebe said.
The Arkansas Fallen Firefighters' Memorial also includes a 24/7 Fire Safety amphitheater, which seats 110 people.