Firefighters and first responders from across the province were in Chilliwack Friday to honour Columbia Valley firefighter Brian Smyth, who died in the line of duty March 7.
Smyth’s flag-draped casket was carried atop a Columbia Valley fire truck along Young Road to the Chilliwack Alliance Church, where services were held. Following behind were members of the department he had served as a volunteer for seven years.
They were joined by hundreds of other firefighters and emergency personnel in a formal “Line of Duty” parade.
Smyth passed away on March 7 after suffering a cardiac arrest while fighting a fire on Iverson Road near Cultus Lake on March 4. He was 57 years old.
Even in death, Smyth continued to help others by donating his organs.
The Fire Chiefs' Association of BC has sent its condolences to Smyth's family, to Columbia Valley's Fire Chief Mike Soth and to the entire fire department.
"Events like this remind us all of the dangers firefighters face on a regular bases in service and protection to their communities," said FCABC president Timothy Pley, calling it "truly a sad time for everyone."
Predeceased by his parents, Reverend Ben and Lee Smyth, Smyth leaves behind his sister Sarah, nephew Andrew, and grandniece Temika.