From March 24th to 30th marks the celebration of Firefighters Week 2019 for the Government Firemen working within the Ministry of General Affairs. Prime Minister Leona Romeo Marlin who is responsible for General Affairs joined the Firemen on Sunday morning at the church service of the Anglican Church in South Reward kicking off the start of the Firefighters Week. “Divine Service & Sport Days” is the theme for the week of activities that ends with the annual Fireman Ball on Saturday evening.
Prime Minister Romeo Marlin would like to express publicly the following message to the Government firemen, “The Sint Maarten men and women who risk their lives on a daily basis to keep this island safe from the destructive and potentially fatal effects of fire, warrants a special recognition. Firefighters are often overworked and underappreciated, yet instead of complaining, they bravely protect us at any and every encounter risking their lives because of the love of their job.
Fighting fires is intense, challenging, and very risky work, I have personally witnessed them in action outing the Landfill fires, and the massive fire in the Cole Bay Industrial area. Without fear, they are exposed too falling roofs, toxic gases, and exposed to unimaginable temperatures from the heat putting their personal safety at risk. To the Firemen of the Government of Sint Maarten and Princess Juliana International Airport, as you celebrate this week of activities, I take this opportunity on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten to say a special thank you for your dedication and bravery.
As the minister responsible for safety and security, the fire department, I salute each of you. I am extremely grateful and proud of your bravery. Continue to be each other’s keeper. May the Lord bless each of and keep you and your families safe.”