HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025 May International Firefighters's DayCOLUMBIA 0 HEIGHTS
PROCLAMATION
International Firefighters' Day - May 4, 2025
On May 4, we join communities worldwide in recognizing International Firefighters' Day, a day to honor the
bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of firefighters everywhere. This date also marks Saint Florian's Day, in
tribute to the patron saint of firefighters. Saint Florian, a commander of the Roman Army, was responsible for
leading firefighting brigades. He organized and trained an elite group of soldiers whose sole duty was to fight
fires.
Firefighters are first responders, community protectors, and lifesavers. Here in Columbia Heights, we are
deeply grateful to our own Fire Department for its unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of
our neighbors. Their readiness, professionalism, and passion for their community are essential to the strength
and resilience of our city. Whether a Career Firefighter, Paid -on -Call, or Volunteer, the passion for servitude
knows no boundaries.
Our Columbia Heights Fire Department has also built international bridges of camaraderie and learning.
Through our Sister City relationship with Lomianki, Poland, our firefighters have strengthened international
goodwill and professional development with their counterparts from across the sea by exchanging knowledge
on similarities and differences in firefighting training and operations. Closer to home, our firefighters regularly
collaborate with neighboring cities, offering mutual aid and support whenever called upon.
International Firefighters' Day is also a solemn time to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice
in the line of duty. We honor the memory of all firefighters who gave their lives in acts of service. Their legacy
endures in every act of courage that firefighters perform around the world.
On this day, we reflect on the significance of fire prevention, safety education, and the vital role firefighters
play in both emergency response and everyday community building.
Now, therefore, I, Amada Marquez Simula, Mayor of Columbia Heights, do hereby proclaim May 4, 2025,
as International Firefighters' Day in Columbia Heights, Minnesota, and encourage everyone to remember all
fire and emergency personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community, and to pay
respect to the survivors of our fallen heroes. Toll a bell, pause for a moment of silence, or read a special
passage to honor the sacrifices of these public servants and their families. I encourage our community
members to honor fire and emergency services personnel, past and present, who, through their faithful and
loyal devotion to duty, have rendered invaluable service to our city and its people.
In Columbia Heights, we celebrate, honor, and stand in gratitude with firefighters here and around the world.
A r zl
Aiida Marquez Si ula, Mayor
April 28, 2025