Fire Station 61 dedicated to Pompano Beach’s fallen hero
Pompano Beach, Florida –
A state-of-the-art fire station in Pompano Beach was recently dedicated to the memory of a deceased firefighter.
Fire Station 61, a contemporary establishment, was dedicated on Wednesday in commemoration of William J. Elliot, who lost his life in the line of duty during a training mishap.
Elliot’s colleagues and brothers further celebrated his memory.
“They even carved a table up in the kitchen with moments of Bill on it,” stated Joann Elliot, William’s mother. “It’s just incredible, so we’re grateful.”
The creation of this table involved several hundred hours of work, with Elliot’s frequently used phrase “fine American” etched across it.
The table also features his informal name.
“The firefighters gave him the name ‘Jumbo’ because, I believe, there was a football named Jumbo Elliot, so that name kind of stuck with him; they called him Jumbo,” mentioned John Elliot, William’s sibling. “They just loved him so much, and he loved his brothers.”
Throughout the dedication ceremony, city officials and Elliot’s family observed the uncoupling of a fire hose, an act symbolizing a traditional ribbon-cutting.
Elliot’s family expressed their heartfelt gratitude for this honor.
“It means everything to me that my son has been remembered after 11 years,” Joann conveyed. “This is a beautiful tribute. It’s amazing what they’re doing to keep this memory going.”
“I want to take moment and honor the memory of one of our fallen heroes, William Bill Elliot,” expressed Pompano Beach Commissioner Beverly Perkins. “For 22 years, he served our community and dedicated his bravery, and he was a great inspiration to this community giving his service.”
“It’s a special joyous day for us, but it brings back some very painful memories, but still, I’m sure he would be proud if he were here today and is looking down at us,” articulated Pompano Beach Mayor Rex Hardin.
The new station, an impressive structure that encompasses more than 16,000 square feet, is designed to withstand a Category 5 hurricane. It will also function as a training center for novice firefighters.
“Let us honor him by keeping his memory alive, not only with this fire station, but with memories of him and what he stood for,” proposed Pompano Beach Fire Chief Chad Brocato.
Elliot was part of the firefighting team for 22 years before his unfortunate demise in 2012 due to a fall from a fire truck during a training session. The city intends to sustain his memory in the forthcoming years.
Remarkably, Elliot remains the sole firefighter in Pompano Beach’s history to have died while serving.
