Walking the Thin Red Line

The solemn lament of bagpipes rang out from the base of Knox Mountain, as firefighters paid their respects to those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The Kelowna 9/11 Stair Climb remembered those who made the ultimate sacrifice after the attacks in New York and also marked Canada’s Firefighters National Memorial Day.

As an act of remembrance, firefighters donned their gear, and began their ascent to the peak of Knox Mountain, joined by those who wished to show their support for the workers.

The ceremony, which usually takes place at Kelowna’s Fire Station One, was moved to the mountain to allow for the participation and involvement of the public.

Swaths of people joined the men and women of the fire services as they trekked the 3.8 km distance.

“To me, it’s a moment to reflect on all the people that have sacrificed their lives,” firefighter Jerry Vandenberg told Kelowna10. “It’s a big reminder about what we do… we stay within our limits and rely on each other to keep each other safe.”

He said although it is a dangerous job, he knows he is safe after the amount of rigorous training he and his comrades have gone through.

Before the climb, several speeches were made, as well as the reading of the Fireman’s Prayer by the Fire Chaplain, the performance of the Fireman’s Lament by the bagpiper, and the three tolls of the bell to honour the fallen.

Vandenberg began his climb in his full fire suit with all his gear, including a 4 kg oxygen tank strapped on his back. Some firefighters even made their way up the hill carrying full hoses over their shoulders.

The event raised money to support the Kelowna Burn Fund.