Stratford Fire Department LODD Memorial located at Station #2, 44 McCarthy Road West.

Firefighters work hard to protect our lives and property. Their job is fraught with many perils. We take a moment to remember those who have answered their last alarm for they did so that we would be safe.
Click here to view Our Fallen.

Members of the Stratford Fire Department knowing their fallen brothers had been honored internationally in Colorado, Nationally in Ottawa and Provincially in Toronto felt that it was very important that they be recognized locally.

A committee was formed with the goal to create a place of honour for our fallen that their family members could visit. It would also be a reminder of the inherent dangers of our profession. Not only the swift and tragic losses, but also the long term effects of working in toxic environments.

Now only a vision, the committee approached Brian Shackleton of Stratford Memorials Limited for advice. Brian, his family and staff took over looking after every detail, from design to installation. The project was financed from contributions from all members of the department.

Memorial Dedication Program (September 9, 2006)

The official dedication of the LODD Memorial took place under overcast skies on September 9, 2006.

Captain Al Paul was emcee.

Speakers included: Fire Chief Richard Young, Lieutenant James Byatt, Mayor Dan Mathieson, MPP John Wilkinson, and greetings from MP Gary Schellenberger.

A presentation was made to Brian Shackleton followed by the Dedication and Blessing by Rev. Dr. Terry Hastings.

Deputy Fire Chief Michael Gornyiczki conducted the presentations to the families representing our fallen;

Fire Chief Hugh Durkin - died while fighting the Knox Church fire on May 13, 1913. (Betty Dwyer)

Firefighter Charles Schultz - died on January 16, 1921 as a result of the injuries he sustained while fighting the Classic City Bakery fire on January 7, 1921. (Ed & Peg Schultz, Tom & Joanne Schultz)

Firefighter Wilfred Murphy - passed away as the result of an Occupational Illness on January 2, 1968. (Robert & Sharon Murphy)

Firefighter Thomas Nigro - passed away as the result of an Occupational Illness on November 24, 1997. (Marie Nigro)

Captain Harvey Aitcheson - passed away as the result of an Occupational Illness on October 6, 2004. (Barb, Julie & Terry Aitcheson)

On the completion of the presentations, a moment of silence was observed, followed by Amazing Grace - Piper Rod MacDonald Sr., Perth County Pipe Band.

The solemn ceremony concluded with a salute to the families.