The Whitby Fallen Firefighter Memorial will soon become a permanent place of remembrance following $135,000 in federal funding to support its creation at Whitby Civic Park, next to Town Hall.
According to a statement from the Town of Whitby, the memorial will feature a bronze sculpture of a kneeling firefighter at the centre of a circular plaza. The space is being designed as a place for reflection, education, and remembrance, allowing families, colleagues, and residents to honour the courage and sacrifice of firefighters who served the community.
Town officials said locating the memorial at Civic Park ensures the story of service and sacrifice remains visible, accessible, and central to Whitby’s civic life.
The Whitby Fallen Firefighter Memorial will honour seven Whitby firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty and will also recognize the ongoing service of firefighters who continue to protect the community each day.
The project will coincide with the 175th anniversary of Whitby Fire and Emergency Services (WFES), linking past sacrifice with present-day service.
“We thank the Government of Canada and MP Turnbull for his advocacy, which represents a meaningful step in bringing Whitby’s Fallen Firefighter Memorial to life,” said Whitby Fire Chief Michael Hickey. “This funding will help create a lasting place of remembrance that honours the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who have protected our community.”
Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy said the memorial will serve as a lasting tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Whitby’s firefighters accept extraordinary risks in service to our community, and this memorial will stand as a lasting tribute to those who gave their lives protecting others,” Roy said. “This funding will help create a dedicated place for families, colleagues, and residents to honour Whitby’s fallen firefighters.”
Ryan Turnbull, Member of Parliament for Whitby, said the memorial will be the first Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Durham Region.
“Our fallen firefighters deserve a place to be remembered with dignity and honour,” Turnbull said. “I am proud that the federal government, through Canadian Heritage, is supporting the Town of Whitby, WFES, and the Whitby Professional Firefighters Association in bringing this memorial to life.”
Construction timelines for the Whitby Fallen Firefighter Memorial are expected to be announced once final design and planning work is completed.
