The
'ringing of a bell' has significance to many people for many reasons. For a
firefighter that significance for their 'Last Alarm' or 'Last Call' is one that
can leave chills. It did for me yesterday as a brother firefighter of whom I
had the pleasure to work with during twenty years of my career received his
'Last Call'.
This
'ringing' or sometimes called 'passing' or 'tolling' is set forth in a history that
is literally hundreds if not thousands of years. For the firefighter it has
been traced back at least two hundred years. And though there are a difference in
the number of rings, it is always a slow or toll given at the death of a brother or sister firefighter. The bell is a symbol of the call of duty for the
firefighter. In the past it was used to signify the beginning and completion of
each daily tour as well as each alarm throughout that tour or shift. When a
firefighter dies the bell is rung with three rings, three times each. This represents
the end of our comrades’ duties and that he or she will be returning to
quarters.
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| A 10th Anniversary Bell at Sta 80 |
For
me, yesterday's 'Last Call' had significance in four additional ways. His 'Last
Call' was one of celebration not mourning. Though I've attended the service of
my black brothers and sisters is Christ before, it had been quite some time. Oh
baby they can belt out the songs :) Then the stories shared, especially from
his children and even an amazing tribute from a seven year old grandson. This
was followed by a very clear message of the hope and joy of the gospel. And
last, to share this time with several of my fellow firefighter comrades. Reconnecting
with many and knowing that they unabashedly heard of that hope of a life lived in
Christ.
So
at this 'Last Alarm' for our brother Albert we also gladly say 'Well done good
and faithful servant'
Though Albert did not die in the 'line of duty', this video shows a very good representation of the ringing of the bell along with the 'honor guard' duties.
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