Deputy PFCC at inauguration of new Fire Service Memorial in Essex
Posted on Wednesday 8th May
Jane Gardner, Deputy PFCC Essex, attended the inauguration of The National Red Plaque Fire Service Memorial at the Living Memorial complex in Rettendon on Firefighters’ Memorial Day on Saturday 4th May.
The memorial was constructed at the initiative of the England 4 chapter of the Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club to honour fire service personnel who died on duty and those who died after their period of service.
It comprises a garden of remembrance, a memorial wall with the names of fallen fire service personnel inscribed on it, and a building housing historical fire service memorabilia. The centrepiece is a statue of a firefighter completed by Essex sculptor Dave Taylor.
Jane Gardner, Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “I was honoured to attend the ceremony, on Firefighters’ Memorial Day, at the recently installed Fire Service Memorial at the Living Memorial in Rettendon.
“I’m in awe of the daily selfless service carried out by all serving Firefighters and the PFCC works hard to provide Essex County Fire and Rescue Service with the support needed to save lives and prevent fires and accidents.
“I’m particularly pleased to see this innovative, interesting and thought-provoking memorial in Essex, which continues to be served by dedicated and committed Firefighters of the highest calibre.”
The Deputy PFCC was joined at the inauguration by Moira Bruin, Deputy Chief Fire Officer of Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, David Hurst, High Sheriff of Essex, and Norm Beausoleil, International Vice President of the Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club who travelled from the USA to attend the opening.
