Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - In partnership with the Firefighter Arno Memorial (FAM) foundation, Hope Rises delivered pizza on Friday to all 18 of Buffalo's firehouses as a way to honor Jason Arno on the anniversary of his tragic passing while battling a ferocious fire in the city one year ago.
WBEN followed along on some of the deliveries with Board Member of Hope Rises and FAM Foundation Chelsea Gill, who volunteered her time to make today happen. Gill explained the importance of this event, and what she would like to do in the future.
Gill said, "I personally, I'm a first responders' wife. We lost 'Chip' McCarthy 15 years ago. That was the other buffalo firemen that died that I personally would like to do it every year [for]. Even if we switch it up. It may not be food, but it's something to kind of give back. I personally would like to and I know that our board would be in agreeance but either way, I'll make it happen."
Buffalo Firefighter Brian Slomba shared with WBEN the importance of Arno's anniversary and what it means to him and every other firefighter.
Slomba told WBEN, "This day puts a lot into perspective. You hear the stories and you're told when you get on that, unfortunately, you'll have to deal with a passing because it happens. Now I go home and I'm thankful every day that I get to go home and see my family. It puts a lot into perspective."
When asked about what are some things that people can take away from Arno's anniversary, Slomba stated, "You should be thankful for every day. You got guys like Jason who are willing to risk it all. It's the ultimate sacrifice. It's very selfless. You always have us to help you out. The least you can do is pay it forward to the rest of your community."
WBEN also spoke with Buffalo Firefighter Brandon FunderBurk, who shared some of his memories of Arno.
"He literally was the nicest person I've ever met. Literally just that type of person you could have a conversation with and not know anything about you. So just I definitely want people to know that." Funderburk later added, "My prayers go out to his family, they're always our family, too. That's a lot for them to have to deal with, and we're always here for them."