KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Strangers and fire service members from across the country came together Saturday to honor two Kansas City firefighters killed in the line of duty earlier this week.
The community, that John Mesh and Larry Leggio loved and protected, celebrated their lives and sacrifices.
The two-hour service was impressive and respectful. Hundreds of firefighters from across the country lined Grand Street, saluting the families of Mesh and Leggio as they arrived at the Sprint Center.
Bagpipes, the National Anthem and an opening prayer set the stage for the Celebration of Life service. (Story continues below videos)
Thousands of people looked toward the stage, a fire truck parked on either side, draped with black ribbons. Pictures of Leggio and Mesh stayed on display throughout the service, while Kansas City Mayor Sly James, Kansas City Fire Chief Paul Berardi and others spoke of the men’s sacrifice.
Those who came, including thousands of people from across the United States, heard from family members after they were presented folded flags and medals of valor.
Chief Berardi said, “To the families of the fallen firefighters, we can never fully convey our sorrow or our gratitude or our admiration for these brave men. I recognize your sacrifice and I thank you.”
Larry Leggio’s brother Joe Mike Leggio said, “Our families will find strength knowing that these brave men died saving others. We love you both and we will never ever forget.”
Giovanna Caponetto, John Mesh’s niece, said, “Gone but never forgotten, we will forever love and miss you Uncle John. Thank you and Larry for being a hero to this city.”
There was also a large screen set up outside the Sprint Center for people walking by who wanted to stop and pay their respects.
Firefighters came as far as Ontario, particularly Toronto, even though they weren’t in town for the game.
“Everybody that’s here has never been here before. This is something we do because we basically lost two family members. This is part of our family. This is what anybody would do if you lost a family member,” Ontario Professional Firefighters Association President Carmen Santoro said of his travel mates.
He said the American League Championship Series between Toronto and Kansas City has many Canadians in town too.
Santoro said, “It just puts everything into perspective. All in good fun. The Blue Jays got beat pretty good last night, but today we’re all together as one big happy family.”
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