Knoxville TN, October 8, 2025
News Summary
The Knoxville Fire Department held a meaningful memorial ceremony to honor firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty, along with retirees who passed away over the past year. A total of 35 individuals were recognized during this solemn event, which included the reading of names, tolling of bells, and placement of roses in memory of the heroes. This annual gathering not only remembers the sacrifices made but also fosters connections among firefighters and their families.
Knoxville – The Knoxville Fire Department held a memorial ceremony on October 7, 2025, at the Knoxville Civic Coliseum. This annual event honored firefighters who died in the line of duty, as well as retirees who passed away in the last year. In total, the memorial recognized 35 individuals, including 24 KFD firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty since 1875 and 11 retired members who passed away over the past year.
During the ceremony, each name was read aloud, accompanied by the tolling of a bell, and a rose was placed in their memory. The event serves as a solemn reminder of the risks and sacrifices associated with firefighting. Mark Wilbanks, the public information officer for KFD, emphasized the significance of the memorial’s timing during National Fire Prevention Month. He noted that October is an important month for the fire department.
Among those who spoke at the event was Knoxville Fire Officer Justin Ingle, who shared insights about the legacy of service that has been passed through generations in his family, which spans nearly 100 years. The memorial not only honored those who made the ultimate sacrifice but also served as a reunion for firefighters, retirees, and families.
The event concluded with a gathering for lunch where attendees shared memories and fellowship. This annual ceremony facilitates connections across generations within the firefighting community, celebrating and honoring those who have contributed to the foundation of the department.
The Knoxville Fire Department’s memorial ceremony is a poignant reminder of the dedication that firefighters bring to their profession and the lasting impact these individuals have on their families and the community.
About the Knoxville Fire Department
The Knoxville Fire Department is dedicated to ensuring the safety of the community through prevention, education, and responsive emergency services. The memorial is one of many events that recognize and celebrate the dedication and sacrifice of those who serve in this noble profession.
Conclusion
Such events are crucial for honoring the past while emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and support among current and former members of the fire service.
FAQs
What was the date of the Knoxville Fire Department’s memorial ceremony?
The Knoxville Fire Department held a memorial ceremony on October 7, 2025.
Where did the memorial ceremony take place?
The event took place at the Knoxville Civic Coliseum.
What individuals were honored at the memorial?
This year’s memorial recognized a total of 35 individuals: 24 KFD firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty since 1875 and 11 retired members who passed away over the past year.
What was done in memory of the honored individuals?
As each name was read aloud, a bell tolled, and a rose was placed in their memory.
What significance does the timing of the memorial have?
The memorial serves as a solemn reminder of the risks and sacrifices associated with firefighting and its timing during National Fire Prevention Month is significant.
What did Knoxville Fire Officer Justin Ingle share during the event?
Justin Ingle spoke about the legacy of service passed through generations in his family, spanning nearly 100 years.
What type of gathering followed the memorial ceremony?
The event included a gathering for lunch where firefighters, retirees, and families shared memories and fellowship.
What does the memorial event facilitate?
Wilbanks noted that the event facilitates connections across generations and honors those who contributed to the department’s foundation.
Key Features of the Memorial Ceremony
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | October 7, 2025 |
| Location | Knoxville Civic Coliseum |
| Total Individuals Honored | 35 |
| Firefighters Honored | 24 (in the line of duty since 1875) |
| Retirees Honored | 11 (passed away in the last year) |
| Significance | Part of National Fire Prevention Month; emphasizes risks and sacrifices of firefighting. |
| Activities | Name reading, bell tolling, rose placement, lunch gathering |
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Additional Resources
- WATE: Knoxville Fire Department’s Memorial Ceremony
- WBIR: Knoxville Honors Firefighters Lost in Duty
- KNIACRLS: Knoxville Fire Department Fire Prevention Week Open House
- KNIACRLS: Agriland Fast Stop Giving Back to Fire and Rescue
- WBIR: East Tennessee Fire Crews Medical Calls
- Wikipedia: Firefighter
- Google Search: Fire Department
- Google Scholar: Fire Safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Firefighting
- Google News: Firefighter Memorial
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
