2 fallen firefighters added to Markham Firefighter Memorial

Yorkregion.com
Oct. 27, 2023

In a solemn and private ceremony, the City of Markham added two new names to the Markham Firefighter Memorial, honouring the memories of Platoon Chief Ken Robertson and Firefighter First Class Xavier Bracken, who both tragically passed away due to injuries incurred while on duty.

The ceremony took place on Oct. 22 at Markham Veterans Square and Cenotaph and brought together city officials, Markham Fire and Emergency Services, and the Markham Professional Firefighters Association, along with the families of the fallen firefighters.

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti and members of the City Council, accompanied by chief administrative officer (CAO) Andy Taylor and Markham Fire and Emergency Services, paid their respects at the memorial, which was unveiled in 2021 as a place of reflection and tribute to the courageous firefighters who protect the community.

Scarpitti expressed the significance of honouring these heroes, stating, "It is important to honour and remember the ultimate sacrifices made by the members of Markham's Fire and Emergency Services. On behalf of the City of Markham and our residents, I thank all members of our fire service, past and present, for answering the call of duty to protect our community and keep us safe."

"The City of Markham and its Fire and Emergency Services stand together with the family and the friends of Ken Robertson and Xavier Bracken, honouring the lives, service, and sacrifice of two brave firefighters who dedicated their lives to helping others and making a difference in the world," Markham Fire Chief Chris Nearing added.

The Markham Firefighter Memorial, situated on 6031 Highway 7 East, serves as a place of solace and support for the families and friends of fallen firefighters. It is a solemn gathering place for the community to reflect on the risks taken by firefighters as they respond to emergencies, whether actively fighting fires or facing occupational illness and disease.