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Honoring fallen firefighters, Cumberland County pays tribute to Jerome Guise


Jerome Guise Photo provided by Citizen's Fire Company{ }
Jerome Guise Photo provided by Citizen's Fire Company
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Cumberland County is honoring firefighters who have died in 2020-2021, along with those who have fallen in the line of duty.

This year, Jerome Guise who was killed battling a blaze back in March 2020 was remembered for the sacrifice he made.

Thursday evening's ceremony was an emotional one for all those in attendance, especially Guise's family.

READ MORE | "We are proud of our son," father remembers fallen firefighter

On March 6, 2020 crews battled back flames as choking black smoke poured out of a home on Boiling Springs Road – Jerome Guise was killed when the front porch collapsed on top of him.

It was the first death in the 125-year history of the Citizen's Fire Company.

Citizen's Fire Company Chief Tim Yingst says, "It was gripping. It was tough. It was a tough time for everybody. Us, the family everyone.”

READ MORE | Coroner identifies firefighter, woman killed in early-morning Cumberland Co. house fire

On Thursday evening, a memorial plaque honoring Jerome was added to the Fire and EMS Tribute Wall at the Cumberland County Public Safety Building.

“It means a big thing to honor a hero like Jerome” Jerome’s family sat in the front row –while dozens of firefighters gathered – bowing their heads – as Amazing Grace was played on the bagpipes.

Alex Hall, a member of the Honor Guard says, “Just because someone is not blood related to us doesn’t mean we can’t take care of them and continue to honor them and love them.”

READ MORE | Fallen Cumberland Co. Firefighter Jerome Guise laid to rest Saturday, full honors

Prayers were shared and tears shed, as a ceremonial wreath was placed on the memorial honoring Jerome’s final call to action.

“He is the definition of a true volunteer firefighter. He was a great fire fighter”

But for Yingst, Jerome was more than just a firefighter, but a friend and in the end a true hero. “It makes us proud and hopefully it makes the family proud as well. “


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