22nd Canadian Fallen Firefighter Foundation Memorial Ceremony

Attending the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Ottawa is an experience that will stay with me for life. The ceremony is a powerful tribute to firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty—some while actively serving, others due to medical complications from the job, and others from the mental health consequences and the trauma they carried as result of their service.

142 names were added to the wall this year.  I am incredibly grateful to the Dryer family for inviting me to join them in honouring Buck, and the 141 other fallen heroes whose names were etched into the monument. Each one represents a life of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment.

On Sunday morning, I walked from the hotel to the memorial site with my former manager, whom I consider a friend and mentor. We were struck by the sheer number of people heading toward the venue. It wasn’t just uniformed fire service members—civilians, military personnel, and cadets also came to pay their respects.

Along Wellington Street, more than 450 uniformed firefighters stood three deep along, stretching as far we could see. In the distance, the pipes and drums began to warm up, highlighting the importance of the day. People streamed in, hoping to find a good vantage point from which to pay their respects. By the time the ceremony began, it was standing room only—many had to peer through trees and shrubs just to catch a glimpse of the proceedings.

The ceremony was a profound and fitting tribute to the sacrifices made by the fallen. The sound of the pipes and drums filled the air, setting a tone that was both solemn and proud. Watching the uniformed members march into the grounds reminded me of the gravity of the day. During the ringing of the bell and the powerful rendition of Amazing Grace, the crowd fell silent in a collective moment of reflection and deep respect. It was one of those rare instances where the weight of history and the depth of sacrifice could be felt through out the crowd.

The part that hit me hardest was the helmet presentation. Two uniformed firefighters stood before each family, presenting a helmet and personalized medallion, offering a few words, and saluting them. I can’t begin to imagine what those families felt in that moment—but I could see the emotion in their eyes, and I felt it in my chest.

After experiencing the ceremony first hand, I’m more committed than ever to supporting the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation and their mission. Sadly, more names will be added each year—but thanks to ceremonies like this, they will never be forgotten.