A memorial ceremony has taken place at Willesden fire station to mark the 25th anniversary of the death of hero firefighter Michael Hill.
Firefighters were joined by Hill’s father, sister and widow for a minute’s silence at noon before a memorial garden on the station was officially unveiled after a recent refurbishment.
David Hill, Michael’s father, laid a wreath provided by the Fire Brigades Union in the garden. Afterwards, small reception was held by members of the on-duty green watch.
Greg Edwards, from the FBU in London, addressed the memorial parade. He said: “Firefighters work together in very hazardous circumstances where sadly some of us pay the ultimate price. Working under those pressures creates a bond difficult to describe to those outside the service. It means we never forget our fallen. We will never forget Michael and his sacrifice to keep people safe.”
Hill died tackling a fire in north west London on 10 May 1993. He was part of a crew mobilised to a fire at a launderette at approx 8pm that night. Hill was with three colleagues inside the building when the roof collapsed trapping them inside.
While the others survived, Hill tragically died from his injuries aged just 32. He joined the London Fire Brigade in 1986 and is survived by his wife Cindy and son Ashley.
