Help Improve North Reading Firefighter's Memorial

The North Reading Firemen's Relief Association, a nonprofit organization focused on preserving the memory of departed members of the Fire Department, has plans to update the Firefighter's Memorial at Riverside Cemetery.

Buying a t-shirt will help fund this project. The t-shirts are pictured, and cost $15 for kids and $20 for adults. All of the proceeds will help update the Firefighters Memorial. Pick one up at the fire department.

Buying and customizing a brick to commemorate someone special in your life can also help the association make the Firefighter's Memorial a historical place of rememberance.

Honor someone special or a lost loved one with a customized 4"x8" brick holding a three-line message for $100 or a prestige 8"x8" brick holding a five-line message. You will receive a keepsake certificate for each brick you order, perfect for framing or gifting.

On the second Sunday in June, residents gather around the memorial for a service to commemorate deceased firefighters. Buying a t-shirt or brick will allow the association to reach their goal of improving the memorial by installing a courtyard in the shape of a Maltese Cross paved with custom bricks and a new illuminated flag pole.

"Each brick or t-shirt you purchase will fund the necessary improvements and pay for land preparation, construction, landscaping and maintenance, with most of the labor being done by members of the North Reading Fire Department," Firefighter Jon Burt said. "Purchase a commemorative brick to honor special people, such as a friend, relative, child, colleague, teacher, client or organization. A brick can also commemorate a family event, such as a birthday or anniversary, and be a thoughtful, everlasting gift."

Paul Hardiman, who passed unexpectedly on Dec. 12, 2012, was the president of the North Reading Firefighter's Relief Association and "making the whole thing happen," according to Burt. The other firefighters are still working on this project with Hardiman in mind.