Fire Department Dedicates Memorial to Fallen Firefighters

The new memorial to fallen firefighters was dedicated in a ceremony on Sunday.

While Avon has not lost a firefighter in the line of duty in its 79-year history, chief Frank Root said, he and his department are aware of others that have. Through his own in the years after the Sept. 11 attacks, Root understands the importance of honoring the sacrifice.

During his speech, Root remembered past Avon firefighters who have died, including Kevin Criss, who died in a motorcycle accident in 2010. Assistant Chief Tim Golay reflected on Sept. 11, and the importance of remembering the first responders who lost their lives that day.

"In about one hour and 42 minutes, it was over," he said. "And life as we knew it as firefighters was about to change forever."

The memorial was built and landscaped by , with Eternity Monuments donating the stone and bronze memorial.

Lt. Eric Dudziak, who worked with Lt. Brett Bruehler to plan the memorial, was pleased with the results.

"It's really unique," he said. "Everyone involved did a phenomenal job."