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One year later, memorials held for fallen Toledo firefighters

One year ago, two Toledo heroes died while fighting a north Toledo fire. Monday, our city remembers Jamie Dickman and Stephen Machcinski's sacrifice at a public memorial.

TOLEDO, OH (Toledo News Now) - One year ago, two Toledo heroes died while fighting a north Toledo fire. Monday, our city remembered Jamie Dickman and Stephen Machcinski's sacrifice with a public memorial.

The memorial was held at 9 a.m. at One Government Center.

The Local 92 President began the service thanking the community for support throughout a difficult year. Fire Chief Luis Santiago thanked Dickman and Machcinski for their devotion to their calling, saying they would never be forgotten.

"It signifies a day that was very difficult for us," the chief said. "But a year later, today means hopefully the process for some to start to draw some closure."

Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins also spoke, calling Machcinski and Dickman both heroes. The them of every speech was giving thanks for the firefighters' sacrifice as well as the dedication of current Toledo fire crews and the support received from the community over the past year.

A ceremonial bell was rung three times to signify the end of duty for both men. A video tribute was then played, honoring the men and showing how the community came together in the wake of their deaths.

Immediate family of Machcinski and Dickman were not present, but many firefighters and friends were.

"He was an amazing man and his wife is so strong," said Michelle Carn, a friend of Jamie Dickman's family. "We want to be here for them."

Monday afternoon, there was a private ceremony for the families and other firefighters at the Historic Church of St. Patrick.

"It's a mood that is hard to describe. It's a sad day; it brings back some painful memories for a lot of folks," said Lt. Matthew Hertzfeld with Toledo Fire and Rescue.

The department asked everyone to observe a moment of silence at 3:03 p.m., the time the first mayday transmission was received.

Read more about Toledo's fallen heroes here.

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