Norwood Fire remembers

We remember especially these four Norwood firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty:

Deputy Louis Parker – Deputy Parker was operating at the Bird Flooring Plant fire. While directing the placement of ladders and hose lines, he collapsed and was transported to Norwood Hospital, where he later died from injuries sustained in the performance of his duty.

Captain Joseph McCormack – Captain McCormack fought a large fire at the tannery on Endicott Street, where he inhaled a significant amount of smoke. The following day, while en route to department training, he became ill. He was transported to Norwood Hospital and later transferred to Boston, where he succumbed to injuries sustained in the line of duty.

Firefighter John Lydon – Firefighter Lydon was driving the ladder truck back from a fire on Hill Street where he inhaled a significant amount of smoke, he collapsed behind the wheel of the ladder truck returning to quarters. He was transported to Norwood Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased, having given his life in service to the Town of Norwood.

Firefighter Charles McDonough – Firefighter McDonough was operating at a fire at Turnpike Lumber on Route 1. During firefighting operations, he was exposed to toxic smoke released. As a result of the exposure sustained Firefighter McDonough later died from his injuries.

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On this Firefighter Memorial Sunday, we ask our community to remember that behind every badge is a person who willingly accepts extraordinary risk in service to others. The names etched into our history are more than stories from the past—they are reminders of the courage, sacrifice, and commitment that define the fire service.

May we never forget Deputy Louis Parker, Captain Joseph McCormack, Firefighter John Lydon, Firefighter Charles McDonough, and all Norwood firefighters who have gone before us. These memorial plaques will be affixed to the Public Safety Building later this year in honor of their sacrifice