TOLEDO, OH (Toledo News Now) - Toledo Firefighters have been committed to a gesture honoring fallen firefighters Steven Machcinski and Jamie Dickman before each court hearing for Ray Abou Arab, who is accused of setting the fire that took both of their lives.
30 minutes before Abou Arab appears in court, for any of his court dates, Toledo Firefighters gather at their Union Hall and walk to the Lucas County Courthouse together. It's a silent gesture that speaks volumes.
Many of the firefighters knew Dickman and Machcinski personally. Others barely knew them. Together they walk to the courthouse to show support for their fallen brothers and the families they left behind.
It's a walk many wish they didn't have to make, but life since January 26 has changed each firefighter individually and the department as a whole.
"Our bond's become a lot stronger," said Firefighter Matt Conway. "We're a little more vocal with the way we feel about each other. We give hugs more often, and just let each other know we're there for each other."
Toledo Firefighters say they'll continue the walk through the duration of the trial, which is set to begin in late October.
