Stoughton Fire Rescue held a private graveside service in memory of fallen firefighter Victor Melendy, Tuesday, Jan.29.. It has been 19 years since Melendy died while fighting a fire on Rose Street, losing his life while searching reported missing resident in a burning building.
The resident was found safe, but after frantic search, his fellow firefighters found Melendy, but it too late to save him.
At the time of his death, Melendy, 47, was a 23-year-old veteran of the Stoughton Fire Department. He left behind a wife and three children.
The Stoughton Fire Department hasn't forgotten the memory of one of their own. Every year, they have honored him with the private ceremony on the anniversary of Melendy's death.
His employee No. 1028 has become a symbol of the loss suffered by the department. On Stoughton's Engine 4 and Ladder 2, it is inscribed with "In memory of 1028." A scholarship is also given his name to a graduating Stoughton High senior each year.
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