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26 June 2026
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“We remember”: fire services day commemorative event honours courage, sacrifice and service, Saldanha Bay
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Saldanha Bay Municipality’s Central Fire Station became a place of reflection, remembrance and unity on Friday, 15 May 2026, as firefighters, municipal leadership, emergency services personnel and community members gathered for the Fire Services Day Commemorative Event. Held in observance of International Firefighters’ Day, the occasion honoured firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, while also remembering the 22 individuals who lost their lives in emergency incidents within the municipal area during 2025. The commemorative event brought together representatives from across government, emergency services and the broader community in a moving programme that highlighted the courage, dedication and humanity that define the fire and rescue profession.
In her address, Chief Fire Officer: Fire and Rescue Services, Ann Supra-Vertue reminded attendees that the day represented far more than an annual observance. She described it as “a solemn and significant occasion” dedicated to reflection, recognition and remembrance.
She emphasised that firefighters continue to serve under extremely challenging conditions, responding to fires, rescues and disasters with professionalism and courage. “Firefighting is more than a profession — it is a calling,” she said, noting that the role demands discipline, sacrifice and unwavering commitment.
Chief Fire Officer Supra-Vertue also highlighted the importance of partnership between emergency services and communities in promoting fire safety, prevention and preparedness. She stressed that public safety remains a shared responsibility requiring collaboration and trust.
A particularly poignant moment during the ceremony was the reading of names and the placement of flowers at the newly erected memorial cross outside the station. The memorial stands as a lasting tribute to fallen firefighters and community members who lost their lives during emergency incidents.
Executive Mayor Alderman Marius Koen said the memorial would serve as “a permanent beacon of hope, remembrance and reflection”.
Addressing the families of those who passed away, he acknowledged the deep pain carried by loved ones and assured them that those lost would not be forgotten. “Behind every number is a person. A mother. A father. A child. A sibling. A colleague. A friend,” he said.
The Executive Mayor also paid tribute to firefighters and emergency personnel who continue to place themselves in harm’s way to protect communities. “Many people only see the flashing lights and hear the sirens, but few truly understand the emotional and physical toll carried by emergency personnel,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment from the Fire and Rescue Services Department to continue serving with integrity, professionalism and compassion.
The words echoed by this memorial service are simple, yet deeply powerful: “We Remember.”
Source: Chief Fire Officer Ann Supra-Vertue, Saldanha Bay Fire and Rescue Services
In her address, Chief Fire Officer: Fire and Rescue Services, Ann Supra-Vertue reminded attendees that the day represented far more than an annual observance. She described it as “a solemn and significant occasion” dedicated to reflection, recognition and remembrance.
She emphasised that firefighters continue to serve under extremely challenging conditions, responding to fires, rescues and disasters with professionalism and courage. “Firefighting is more than a profession — it is a calling,” she said, noting that the role demands discipline, sacrifice and unwavering commitment.
Chief Fire Officer Supra-Vertue also highlighted the importance of partnership between emergency services and communities in promoting fire safety, prevention and preparedness. She stressed that public safety remains a shared responsibility requiring collaboration and trust.
A particularly poignant moment during the ceremony was the reading of names and the placement of flowers at the newly erected memorial cross outside the station. The memorial stands as a lasting tribute to fallen firefighters and community members who lost their lives during emergency incidents.
Executive Mayor Alderman Marius Koen said the memorial would serve as “a permanent beacon of hope, remembrance and reflection”.
Addressing the families of those who passed away, he acknowledged the deep pain carried by loved ones and assured them that those lost would not be forgotten. “Behind every number is a person. A mother. A father. A child. A sibling. A colleague. A friend,” he said.
The Executive Mayor also paid tribute to firefighters and emergency personnel who continue to place themselves in harm’s way to protect communities. “Many people only see the flashing lights and hear the sirens, but few truly understand the emotional and physical toll carried by emergency personnel,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment from the Fire and Rescue Services Department to continue serving with integrity, professionalism and compassion.
The words echoed by this memorial service are simple, yet deeply powerful: “We Remember.”
Source: Chief Fire Officer Ann Supra-Vertue, Saldanha Bay Fire and Rescue Services
