In Memory of Worcester's Fallen Firefighters: Statement of Frank Vellaccio, Ph.D., Acting President

WORCESTER, Mass. – The Holy Cross family is struggling to find the appropriate actions and words to express its deepest sympathies to the families, friends and coworkers of the city's six fallen firefighters. They are in our prayers and our thoughts.  As part of the community, we are mindful of the vigilance and sacrifice our firefighters provide at all times.  In this hour of tragedy, we join the voices of grief and remembrance for the friends and neighbors we have all lost.

Holy Cross shares a special bond with this city's firefighters.  In 1852, just nine years after our founding, the College was devastated by a fire in Fenwick Hall.  Worcester firemen attempted to control the blaze but, in the end, most of the building burned to the ground. Students and faculty were left homeless, although that night the proprietor of the Worcester House hotel, offered 30 of his rooms to students and firemen free of charge.

There was great doubt that Holy Cross would continue after such a catastrophe, but thanks to the kindness and generosity of the Worcester community and friends of the College, Fenwick Hall was rebuilt.  Today, we stand stronger, able to attempt to repay a debt of gratitude to our city's firefighters.

The firefighters and their families will be remembered at a Memorial Mass in St. Joseph Chapel at Holy Cross, on Friday, December 10, at 12:05 p.m.  During the Mass, a collection will be taken to benefit the fund that has been established for the families of the firefighters. The College is collecting contributions in the Department of Personnel to donate to the  Firefighters' Fund and will match all contributions made by members of the Holy Cross community. All donations must be received on or before January 16, 2000.

In addition, we are joining with the other member schools in the Colleges of Worcester Consortium and offering scholarship assistance to the children of the deceased firefighters who are qualified for admission.

Finally, we will welcome to the College the visiting firefighters from around the country who will attend the memorial service on Thursday.  We are able to house 150 firefighters overnight in campus accommodations, and a total of 1,000 visitors for dinner this evening and breakfast on Thursday.  We are heartened to be able to offer some assistance during this time of immense grief.