St. Paul, MN—State Representative Jeff Witte, R-Lakeville, gave remarks at the annual Minnesota Fallen Fighter Memorial Service in St. Paul on Sunday. Other speakers at the service included Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson, and Senator Lindsey Port, DFL-Burnsville.
This year’s memorial service was the first following the tragic deaths of three Burnsville first responders while responding to a domestic violence call in February. Rep. Witte spent 27 years as a member of the Burnsville Police Department.
“This year’s memorial service took on a different meaning for us all, especially as someone who served 27 years as a law enforcement officer with the City of Burnsville,” said Witte. “Firefighters run toward what most others run away from, serving with a dedication, compassion and humanity that should never be underestimated. They take an oath to put their lives on the line to serve and protect their communities. When they don't make it home, families are changed, and hearts are broken.”
Every year since 2011, hundreds of people have gathered on the grounds of the State Capitol on the last Sunday of September for a solemn ceremony to remember the Minnesota firefighters who have died in the line of duty. Burnsville firefighter-paramedic Adam Finseth, along with Burnsville Police Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge were tragically killed in the line of duty in February.
“As a former law enforcement officer, I have dedicated my entire adult life to serving communities in the South Metro,” said Witte. “Even though my time in uniform is over, my watch never ends in my commitment to serve my community and all Minnesotans. I will always support the brave men and women who put on the uniform each and every day to keep our communities safe.”
The Minnesota Fire Service Foundation is responsible for the planning of the annual Firefighter Memorial Service. The event honors and recognizes those individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice in serving their community. The service is always held the last Sunday of September at 1:00 pm at the Fallen Firefighter Memorial located on the State Capitol Grounds.
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