Anthony Jackson
Anthony Jackson lost his life in the line of duty on the 27th November 1974. His Red Plaque was unveiled on the 27th November 2022.
Anthony was only 18yrs old and had only joined the then Humberside Fire Brigade six months previously when the accident happened on the 27th November 1974. Anthony was taking part in a training exercise on station, which involved him being at the head of the turntable ladder, when a sudden gust of wind was thought to have caused the ladder to collapse. Anthony who was attached to the ladder fell to the ground and tragically sustained fatal injuries.
The Red Plaque was unveiled at Goole Fire Station, the site of the incident, to honour the sacrifice made by Anthony Jackson. The ceremony was attended by people from the Fire Brigades Union, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, Ex Firefighters and members of the local community. Moving speeches were made and members of the FBU Pipe Band played light airs as guests arrived and played the “Firefighter’s Lament” on conclusion of the ceremony.
Niall McKiniry, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, said,
“The loss of Anthony Jackson was a tragedy, although the incident was 48 years ago, we at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service believe it’s vitally important to recognise the sacrifice made by Anthony and to show that nobody is forgotten. The plaque on the front of the fire station will act as a permanent reminder of the sacrifice made by Anthony.
“Having the Red Plaque at our Fire Station is a wonderful way to remember firefighter Jackson. The Service fully support the FBU Red Plaque initiative and would like to thank Stew for submitting the application for this scheme that commemorates fallen firefighters.”
Three retired Firefighters, Danny Johnson, Blake Peebles and Ed Foster, who were all at training school with Anthony, unveiled the plaque in his memory. A miniature replica of the plaque was presented to Watch Manager Gaz Marshall on behalf of Goole Fire Station, this was in absence of any surviving members of family being present at the ceremony. Wreaths were also placed underneath the plaque in remembrance of Anthony, on behalf of the FBU, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service and Humberside Fire Authority.
The unveiling ceremony was on 48-year anniversary and was held at Goole Fire Station, attended by Deputy Chief Fire Officer Niall McKiniry, Chair of Fire Authority Cllr John Briggs, FBU Officials, the FBU Pipe Band, HFRS Officers, people who knew Anthony and members of the local community.
Below are memories added by those who knew Anthony Jackson or had a story that they wish to share with you. If you have a tribute for Anthony Jackson that you wish to add, please include your memory below.
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Photo credits: Fire Brigades Union
