19 fallen heroes honored at public safety memorial in Richmond
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Richmond community gathered on Capitol Street on Saturday afternoon to honor the 19 names that were added to the Commonwealth Safety Memorial.
On Saturday, Sept. 13, families, friends and other community members gathered at 901 Capitol Street for the Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial and an official unveiling of the wall with its newest additions by the Virginia Public Safety Foundation.
Nineteen names were added to the wall this year, which is one more than last year. In 2024, a total of 18 names were added.
"To the families, friends and colleagues of our heroes, please know that you are not alone," organizers said. "Your loved ones' names will forever be etched not only on this wall, but also in our hearts. Their courage and dedication to protecting others will never be forgotten."
Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial Service held on Capitol Street on Sept. 13. (Photo: Nikkita Tyler, 8News)
Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial Service held on Capitol Street on Sept. 13. (Photo: Nikkita Tyler, 8News)
Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial Service held on Capitol Street on Sept. 13. (Photo: Nikkita Tyler, 8News)
Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial Service held on Capitol Street on Sept. 13. (Photo: Nikkita Tyler, 8News)
Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial Service held on Capitol Street on Sept. 13. (Photo: Nikkita Tyler, 8News)
Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial Service held on Capitol Street on Sept. 13. (Photo: Nikkita Tyler, 8News)
Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial Service held on Capitol Street on Sept. 13. (Photo: Nikkita Tyler, 8News)
Commonwealth Public Safety Foundation Memorial Service held on Capitol Street on Sept. 13. (Photo: Nikkita Tyler, 8News)
The memorial service has been described as "a time of reflection, gratitude, and comfort as we stand together to honor their sacrifice and the enduring legacy they leave behind," per organizers.
Last year, the two names of fallen firefighters with Chesterfield County Fire and EMS were engraved into the Commonwealth Public Safety Memorial in Richmond on Aug. 20, 2024. They joined other Virginia first responders who have all died in the line of duty.
