Via a Government press release, Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities, Honourable Kye Rymer has commended Fire Officers throughout the Virgin Islands for their unwavering dedication to the protection of life and property in in observance of International Firefighters Day on May 4.
Hon. Rhymer said, “It is fitting that the public stays aware of the selfless sacrifice of fire officers and recognise them for their commitment, bravery, professional and volunteer service offered to communities.”
The Chief Fire Officer, Zebalon McLean also reportedly gave remarks on “the hazards and risks of the profession.” McLean said learning of fallen fire officers in other countries is always accompanied with a sense of loss and apprehension.
Chief McLean said: “Working in the small and relatively isolated Virgin Islands does not remove the same hazards and risks that all fire fighters around the world face daily.”
The Government notes that this year’s International Firefighters Day was promoted by: “Fire Services striving to prevent fire and improvement in intensive and thorough training, people across the world expressing their gratitude by making donations, engaging in charity work and campaigns, and offering medical treatment to Fire Officers, and persons expressing their appreciation for fire officers verbally through gestures, gifts and other forms of gratitude.”
International Firefighters’ Day is observed annually every May 4th. The day came to be after a proposal was emailed around the world on January 4, 1999 following the deaths of five firefighters in tragic circumstances in a bushfire in Australia.
The day’s symbol is red for fire and blue for water.
The Minister said he was “pleased that the day is observed to recognise, remember, and honour the memories of fallen brothers and sisters and those who serve when chaos reigns.”