EXETER, R.I. (AP) – A memorial will be dedicated in Rhode Island for 97 firefighters who have died in the line of duty since the 1800s.
North Kingstown Fire Chief Scott Kettelle says firefighters raised more than $300,000 for the memorial that will be dedicated Saturday at the state Fire Training Academy. Construction has taken around a year.
The Providence Journal reports firefighters who have died since record keeping began in the 1800s will be commemorated for their sacrifice.
Kettelle says he and other organizers hope the event can become an annual tradition. The fire department plans to continue adding more names with fundraising through the sale of engraved paving bricks.
The memorial is open to the public.
