By A.M. Sheehan

Norway Fire Department Captain David W. Millet was honored Oct. 4 along with 86 other fallen firefighters during the 34th annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service in Maryland.

On behalf of the American public, President Barack Obama expressed deepest sympathies to the survivors, according to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

The President spoke of bravery and courage that is instinctive among all firefighters. “Those we honor today lived a fundamental principle that binds us as Americans: I am my brother’s keeper and I am my sister’s keeper. That we look out for one another,” he said.

The President unveiled a bronze plaque bearing the names of the 87 fallen. The plaque has been added to the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. President Obama then greeted each family.

Survivors received an American flag that had been flown above the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial and the U.S. Capitol Dome. They were also presented a personalized badge bearing the name of their firefighter and a red rose.

Millet’s family attended the service. On May 10, 2014, Millet, 62, requested EMS to his home for difficulty breathing following a fire response at 28 Water St. Millett suffered a heart attack and died by the time medics arrived. Because he died within hours of fighting a fire, he is considered to have died in the line of duty.

Captain Millett joined the Norway Fire Department as a volunteer in 1972, eventually serving as captain and safety officer. He was also treasurer of the Norway Firemen’s Relief Association and was also per diem deputy sheriff. He fulfilled a lifelong dream and, with his wife, owned and managed the popular Millett’s Variety for 14 years.

To see photos and video of the memorial weekend events, go to www.firehero.org.

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