Hundreds pay tribute to firefighter killed in Kingston-area blaze
Hundreds of firefighters, first responders, police officers, soldiers and community residents paid tribute to Patrick Pidgeon on Saturday.
The firefighter with the Loyalist Township Emergency Services suffered fatal injuries battling a fire in Amherstview, Ont. one week ago — the first Ontario firefighter to lose his life while working since 2011.
Pidgeon had been a volunteer firefighter for Loyalist Township for a year. He was also a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, serving two tours of duty there.
"Pidgeon was not paid for what he did. He did it because he was someone who wanted to help," said resident, Johanne Valiquette.
In statement after the memorial service, Loyalist Township Mayor Bill Lowry said that, "Through his life, no matter the mission that he chose — as a spouse, parent, military officer, correctional services officer, emergency responder and firefighter — he was committed to all of these with the same principles of dedication, passion and pride to serve and protect all. Patrick leaves a legacy that is second to none."
