Brent Nunweiler is president of the Local IAFF 237 Firefighters Union in Lethbridge. He says the tragedy made his generation see the fire service in a new light.

During the annual event every IAFF member across North America who passed away in the last year is honoured by having their name called. In Lethbridge all local members are read aloud, whether they died this past year or decades ago.

Many of the names read are firefighters who died of cancer, a silent killer affecting the profession. The ceremony reminds families that their loved ones are not forgotten.

Neil Laboske is commander of the IAFF 237 honour guard. He talks about unity and remembrance, saying the gathering helps people stop, look around and remember what’s really important.

The memorial links a global tragedy to the daily work of Lethbridge firefighters. By remembering the fallen, they keep their promise to protect the community.