Fallen Firefighter Memorial being unveiled this fall in Whitby, Ontario

A permanent place to honour courage, sacrifice and service of Whitby firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty is coming to Civic Park this fall, thanks to $135,000 in federal funding to create a Fallen Firefighter Memorial.

The memorial will recognize the seven Whitby firefighters who paid the ultimate price while on duty and serve as a lasting tribute to the men and women who put themselves at risk to protect the community every day. It will also mark the 175th anniversary of Whitby Fire and Emergency Services, connecting past sacrifice with present-day service.

“Whitby’s firefighters accept extraordinary risks in service to our community, and this memorial will stand as a lasting tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy, who thanked Ottawa for the funding support to create a “dedicated place” at Whitby Civic Park for families, colleagues, and residents to honour the service of Whitby’s fallen firefighters.

The memorial will feature a bronze sculpture of a kneeling firefighter at the centre of a circular plaza. Designed as a space for remembrance and learning, the memorial will offer families, colleagues, and residents a meaningful place to pay their respects and learn about the history and legacy of Whitby Fire.

“Our fallen firefighters deserve a place to be remembered with dignity and honour,” said Whitby MP Ryan Turnbull.

By situating the memorial at Civic Park, next to Town Hall, Whitby is ensuring this story of service and sacrifice remains visible, accessible, and central to the community, Roy said.

Engraved names of the seven fallen firefighters will be featured in the memorial’s design, along with a contemplative plaza for reflection.

Whitby Fire Chief Michael Hickey thanked the government for “helping to bring Whitby’s Fallen Firefighter Memorial to life.”

“This funding will help create a lasting place of remembrance that honours the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who have protected our community.”

Hickey’s sentiments were shared by Whitby Professional Firefighters’ Association Vice President Josh Girard.

“This support is profoundly meaningful to our members and families as we honour our fallen and ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten.”

The memorial is being funded through contributions from the federal government, the Whitby Professional Firefighters’ Association, the Town of Whitby, and private donors.

The memorial is expected to be constructed and unveiled in October.