Virginia's Department of Fire Programs (DFP) recently honored the state's fallen firefighters during its 13th annual memorial service held in Richmond. The state honored firefighters from throughout the state who died in the line-of-duty, including those who died at incidents and those who died of an illness associated with lifelong fire service, said Mark Buff, a DFP communications manager.

"These are men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting the citizens of our state, so it's fitting that we pay tribute to them and to their survivors: their spouses, their children and their colleagues who have experienced a loss," he said. "We want to make sure that those who lay their lives on the line and make the ultimate sacrifice of their lives are honored."

The memorial service included a Virginia Fire Services Honor Guard procession featuring the Saint Andrew's Legion Pipes and Drums; musical performances by Richmond recording artist Susan Greenbaum and Nashville recording artist Kari Smith; and a fire apparatus display from fire departments across the state. Families receive a framed, Commonwealth of Virginia flag that was presented during the service, Buff said.

Honored for their sacrifice were as follows:

JEFFRY A. REED — Firefighter. Reed was a Pulaski Fire Department firefighter. He began his service in 2001 as a volunteer firefighter. He achieved certification in Firefighter I and II and hazmat in less than two years. He was hired as a career firefighter in October 2002. He was certified as Fire Officer I with more than 500 hours of other recognized fire service training. He was an accomplished carpenter and brick/block mason.

MICHAEL E. NEW — Captain. New was a nationally registered EMT/paramedic for more than 20 years. He was a past captain and life member of Bennett's Creek Rescue Squad and a former deputy with the Chesapeake Sheriff's Department. He was a short track racecar driver at Langley and Southampton Speedways.

CARL A. BARBER — Master Firefighter. Barber served for nearly 30 years on the Virginia Beach Fire Department. He served with Engines 16, 18, 19, 10 and 6 and had a reputation for being an excellent operator and a dedicated member of his department. He assisted with the training of many new officers at his companies.

LARRY W. FELTON SR. — Firefighter. Felton served in the U.S. Army and then began serving with Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service. Felton faithful served in his department for 35 years.

CARL NORDWALL — Captain. Nordwall was a fire captain with the Norfolk Airport and a life member of Oceana Volunteer Fire Department. He was the past president of Local 3406 and a charter member of American Legion Riders Chapter 49 out of Smithville, Va.

BOBBY JOE MULLINS — Assistant Fire Chief. Mullins served with Dante Volunteer Fire Department for more than a decade. He loved helping others. Mullins was an accomplished musician.