It is with deep regret that we advise you that the Belgian Fire Rescue services suffered a third LODD in barely one week. The 39 year old Civil Protection Force Fire Rescue FF/Diver Olivier Rouxhet was killed in the Line of Duty during the search for 2 children in the Meuse River. The 12 and 6 year old children have been missing since January 16 when the oldest girl jumped after her sister who fell into the water.
As a part of the recovery efforts, the fire rescue service participated and the FF, Olivier Rouxet, an experienced diver, crew-chief of the diving operation over the the previous days, got into trouble going down in the man-made barrier complex on the river. He gave alarm signals by his security line, but the surface-crew couldn’t free him. They immediately started a rescue operation but it was too late. He had been smashed to a pier of bridge by the flow and lost a part of his diving equipment, most importantly his breathing mask. A diver of the Liège Fire brigade was also injured bringing the unconscious FF to the surface. An medical crew start life saving measures but he did not survive. FF Oliver Rouxhet was divorced and leaves a 7 year old daughter. As always, our sincere condolences.
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What is the Mission of the NFFF Memorial Stair Climbs?
We climb to ensure that the fallen firefighters of September 11 are never forgotten; we complete their journey through dedication, training, and physical fitness.
What is a 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb?
On the morning of September 11th, Firefighters convene in high-rise buildings across the United States to climb 110 stories as a tribute to their fallen brothers. Some use air pack or carry hoses; many are in full turn-out gear; others are accompanied by rescue dogs. Each climber carries the photograph of a Firefighter who was lost on September 11, 2001.
Several climbs have been modified to enable citizens to participate, building height issues and are generally held in outdoor venues. For both types of event, the 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb is not a race, but an opportunity to honor and remember the 343 FDNY members who selflessly gave their lives so that others might live.
Take Care-BE CAREFUL.
