Fireman’s Memorial: Worcester Cold Storage Tragedy
By Christopher J. Naum, SFPE on Dec 03, 2011 with Comments 0
Fireman’s Memorial
On December 3, 1999, a five-alarm fire at the Worcester Cold Storage & Warehouse Co. building claimed the lives of six brave firefighters who responded to the call. These six heros, The Worcester 6, sacrificed their lives to try and rescue two individuals who were believed to be trapped inside the inferno. May the Worcester 6 always be remembered; “Fallen Heroes Never Forgotten.”
 Firefighter Paul A. Brotherton |
 Firefighter Timothy P. Jackson |
 Firefighter Jeremiah M. Lucey |
 Firefighter James F. Lyons |
 Firefighter Joseph T. McGuirk |
 Lieutenant Thomas E. Spencer |
Franklin Street Fire Station
The site of the former Worcester Cold Storage Warehouse building is now home to the Franklin Street Fire Station. Officially opened on November 19, 2008, the station houses Engine 6, Ladder 1 and Rescue 1.
This state-of-the art facility is a fitting site to those six brave men who gave their lives in the line of duty. At the official ribbon cutting ceremony, many family and friends of the Worcester 6 were in attendance to partake in this memorable experience; a day honor the fallen heros and to celebrate the spirit of our community.
Tribute
Crafted by artist Brian P. Hanlon, the three-piece tribute to the six fallen firefighters in the December 3, 1999 fire was unveiled to the public on December 3, 2008; nine years after the tragic fire and on the very spot where the warehouse once stood.
The artist used three elements to create this wonderful tribute:
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The figure represents the present reflecting on what happened in the tragedy. He is a beautifully detailed firefighter, dressed in full modern gear.
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In the middle is a fireman’s topcoat folded with a fireman’s helmet resting on top. A plaque affixed to the front of the pedestal reads, “On this site on December 3, 1999, six brave Worcester firefighters lost their lives in the Worcester Cold Storage Warehouse Fire.”
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Lastly, a 12-foot by 6-foot granite wall depicts six firefighters all working together. The figures are not meant to be likenesses; they “impart the spirit of the job.”
Anyone wishing to view this fine tribute may do so by visiting the Franklin Street Fire Station at the site of Worcester Cold Storage Warehouse Fire. The tribute is located on the left-hand side of the main entrance.
Fireman’s Prayer
When I am called to duty, God where ever flames may rage, give me strength to save some life, whatever be its age. Help me embrace a little child before it is too late or save an older person from the horror of that fate. Enable me to be alert and hear the weakest shout and quickly and effectively to put the fire out. I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me to guard my every neighbor and protect his property. And if according to my fate I am to lose my life, please bless with your protecting hand my children and my wife.
AMEN
Filed Under: In Quarters
