The procession passed firefighter Jonathon Croom's station. His fire equipment was symbolically in front, and thousands of firefighters lined Franklin Street. A final salute to a man who give all for his job. Croom's picture was taped to the front of the firetruck he should have been riding in. His family arrived at what they called a celebration of life. A life filled with smiles and laughter. Croom was defined as the ultimate family man, a man who became Mr. mom when his daughter was just two months old, who was soon to be the father of a son. The baby will be named after him
"He was extremely looking forward to the new one, the little boy that is soon to be born, that he will never see," said his mother Angie Heusinger.
She spoke of a son, who was nicknamed Simeon, that loved everything about being a firefighter.
"I would say Sim, go to a quieter house, he said no mom, I love the action," his mother added.
Firefighters lined the pews. Those who worked with him spoke of his dedication to the job.
"All I could think about coming up here was saying thank you to John, because working with John, talking to John, vacationing with John and has family, I became a better friend, a better father," said Firefighter Sean McKinny.
His family received a flag that flew over the United States Capitol on the day of the fire, and the International Association of Firefighters medal of honor.
"My request to the firefighters in this room, I always said to him, please be careful. Please wear the gear. Do it the right way. Don't run in. Make sure there is a reason. Make sure it does not happen again," added his mother.
