 Pierre Fire
Department Observes Memorial Day
(Pierre, SD) – May 27, 2002 – The Pierre Fire
Department observed Memorial Day as it usually does.
Department members placed markers on the graves of firefighters who have
answered the Final Call. They
remember the activities and deeds those before them have accomplished.
In Pierre, special firefighter markers are placed on the gravesites of former firefighters to symbolize their commitment to the community during their lives. The Pierre Fire Department annually gives the Don Marso Memorial Award to recognize and acknowledge a firefighter’s continuing service and contributions over the years. The award is made to that firefighter who, by example, inspires a high level of performance by other department members in all aspects of department activity. The award is given in remembrance of Don Marso who was killed in an accident while fighting a wildland fire in the Pierre area. The Pierre Volunteer Fire Department has been in existence since 1881 and is one of only two state capitols having a totally volunteer fire department response. |
Only
a small percentage of firefighters die in the line of duty but all deceased
firefighters that have served the community, in many ways over the years, are
honored at this time each year.