Firefighter Memorial Service: 105 S.C. firefighters remembered

Columbia, South Carolina (Feb. 15, 2025)—The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association honored 105 firefighters who died last year during its annual Firefighter Memorial Service on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, in Irmo.

Memorializing and honoring South Carolina firefighters who have passed is a privilege, honor and duty of the utmost importance. The ceremony is a powerful reminder of the selfless dedication and invaluable service these men and women provided to communities across the state.

“The Firefighter Memorial Service is a special time for us in the fire service to come together and take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices our brothers and sisters make and thank their families for supporting their public service,” South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association President Randy Arant said. “The ceremony is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute, and I hope it brings a sense of closure to everyone in attendance.”

“The fire service is a family, and when we lose a firefighter, we grieve alongside everyone who loved them,” Executive Director Jamie Helms said. “This is our way of bringing the families and departments together to honor the firefighters we’ve lost this year.”