Hundreds Honor Easton Firefighter Russell Neary

EASTON, Conn. - Hundreds of firefighters, politicians and friends gathered Saturday for a memorial ceremony for Russell Neary, the Easton firefighter who died Monday night clearing debris from a road after Hurricane Sandy struck.

Fire personnel from Connecticut, neighboring states and Canada attended the memorial service for Easton firefighter Russell Neary at Notre Dame Church Saturday morning.
Photo Credit: *Ken Liebeskind*

by Ken Liebeskind

11/03/2012 3:30 p.m.

Gov. Dannel Malloy spoke briefly after the ceremony, held at Notre Dame of Easton Church, calling Neary "a good man and neighbor who contributed and protected the community."

Neary was a lieutenant and president of the Easton Volunteer Fire Company.

"His passion was to be a fireman and it was in his heart and soul to help others," Kevin Faley, his brother-in-law, told those in attendance. "He went on every call he could, including Monday's, when he died on duty helping others."

Firefighters and EMS personnel from around Connecticut, other states and Canada attended the ceremony, standing at attention outside the church.

A reception followed at the Easton Fire House.

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