Published November 11. 2025 12:17PM
The Bethlehem Fire Department held its annual service at the Memorial Fire Station on West Broad Street Oct. 23. With current and retired firefighters, Mayor J. William Reynolds, other public safety officials, and members of the public in attendance, firefighters Wayne Beahm, Eugene Sankovsky and Richard Fritz were remembered. Combined they had given Bethlehem a century of service.
“Our Bethlehem Fire Department continues to be a place where people want to work,” said Reynolds.
IAFF Local 735 president Luis Jimenez noted that firefighters “do a job that few people truly don’t understand.”
They placed a memorial wreath, donated by Patti’s Petals, in front of the station to honor the three firefighters and in all firefighters’ memory, followed by three bell taps for each of the firefighters remembered at this year’s service, symbolizing a firefighter’s ‘last call’.
Liberty Grenadier Band members Brady Carvajal and Christian Hackett played “Amazing Grace” and “Taps.”
Fire Chief Matthew Griffin welcomes attendees.
press photos by dana grubbHeads bowed, firefighters listen to the invocation given by Officer James Joniec.
The BFD Colorguard presents the colors at the start of the service.
Firefighter Sean Gilmore, an 11-year veteran, rings a firefighter’s ‘last call.’
Liberty HS Grenadier piper senior Brady Carvajal plays “Amazing Grace.”
Liberty HS junior Christian Hackett, performs Taps.
IAFF Local 735 president Luis Jimenez says firefighters show “strength, perseverance, and dedication.”
Deputy Fire Chief Craig Baer and IAFF Local 735 president Luis Jimenez place a memorial wreath in front of the station.
