By Timothy McShea of IAFF Local #22 (Philadelphia)

September 21, 2013 – I’ve been in Colorado Springs since Thursday preparing for what will turn out to be a very emotional day here. Today the names of last year’s 157 Fallen Firefighters, from across the United States and Canada, will be honored at the IAFF Memorial with their names etched in the granite forever. Local #22 (Philadelphia) will have Michael R. Goodwin’s name dedicated not far from Local #22 Members, Bob Neary and Dan Sweeney’s.

This is a very powerful and moving ceremony orchestrated by the IAFF and Colorado Springs Local #5. While walking around the grounds this morning, I saw the full moon over the Cheyenne Mountains. “It Will Be a Great Day” and I thank Dan Cowden and Chip Kelly for their participation in the Honor Guard and ask for prayers and support for Kelly Goodwin and all the families of the fallen Firefighters, whose loved ones will be honored here today.