Around 30 young people from fire and rescue services across the UK have taken part in the Firefighters Memorial Trust Annual Service of Remembrance and Wreath Laying Ceremony in Staffordshire.
Representing the UK Fire Cadets programme, the cadets joined fire and rescue service personnel, bereaved families and colleagues from across the sector on Monday, September 7 to remember firefighters who lost their lives in the course of their duties.
Fire service community gathers
The annual ceremony took place at the Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens and provided an opportunity for the fire and rescue service community to reflect on the courage, commitment and sacrifice of firefighters who died while serving their communities.
Organised by the Firefighters Memorial Trust, the service began at midday in the Aspects Building at the Remembrance Gardens.
Participants then proceeded to the Firefighters Memorial Garden for the wreath laying ceremony at the Firefighters Monument.
Cadets continue remembrance tradition
Participation in the annual Service of Remembrance is a longstanding tradition for UK Fire Cadets, with young people travelling from fire and rescue services across the country to attend each year.
Around 30 cadets participated in this year’s service and wreath laying ceremony, representing the next generation of the UK fire and rescue service community.
Their involvement also reflects the principles of respect, service and remembrance that form an important part of the Fire Cadet programme.
The annual ceremony brings together different generations of the fire and rescue service community to remember those who have died in the course of their duties and recognise their service.
Lauren Woodward, National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC) Executive Fire Cadet Lead, said: “It is a tremendous honour for our Fire Cadets to take part in the Annual Service of Remembrance.
“The event provides a powerful opportunity for young people to learn about the history and traditions of the fire and rescue service, while paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“This year’s service was especially meaningful as two of our Fire Cadets from South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service took part in the ceremony by reading the Firefighter’s Prayer.
“It is a privilege for them to contribute in such a significant way and demonstrates the respect and maturity shown by Fire Cadets across the UK. It makes me incredibly proud of the young people involved in the programme.”
NFCC was represented by Vice Chair Rick Hylton, who laid a wreath on behalf of the organisation.
The UK Fire Cadets programme supports thousands of young people across the UK, helping them develop confidence, teamwork, leadership and life skills through activities within their local fire and rescue services.
Alongside events such as the National Fire Cadet Games, the UKRO Fire Cadet Casualty Care Challenge and the Remembrance Sunday Cenotaph Parade, the Annual Service of Remembrance provides cadets with the opportunity to represent their communities at a national event and honour the service and sacrifice of others.
