POMPANO BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - A new fire station was dedicated to the life of a fallen firefighter in Pompano Beach.
Pompano Beach Fire Station 61, a new state-of-the-art facility, was rededicated on Wednesday in memory of William J. Elliot, who died in the line of duty during a training incident.
William’s brothers and fellow firefighters took it a step further.
“They even carved a table up in the kitchen with moments of Bill on it,” said Joann Elliot, his mother. “It’s just incredible, so we’re grateful.”
The table took hundreds of hours to complete, with the words “fine American” written across. It was one of Elliot’s catchphrases.
Also written on the table was his nickname.
“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,” said John Elliot, William’s brother. “They just loved him so much, and he loved his brothers.”
During the ceremony, city officials and Elliot’s loved ones watched as a fire hose was uncoupled, symbolizing the cutting of a ribbon.
The firefighter’s family expressed their appreciation for the honor.
“It means everything to me that my son has been remembered after 11 years,” Joann said “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,” said 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,” said Pompano Beach Mayor Rex Hardin.
The new station measures over 16,000 square feet, can withstand a Category 5 hurricane and will also serve as a training facility for new 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,” said Pompano Beach Fire Chief Chad Brocato.
Elliot served on the force for 22 years before his death in 2012 when he fell from a fire truck during a training exercise. The city plans to keep his memory alive for years to come.
He is also the only firefighter in Pompano Beach to die in the line of duty.
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