An 8-year-old boy who rescued six of his family members from a fire and died while trying to save his disabled grandfather was given a fireman’s funeral on Wednesday, with a full honor guard and bagpipes.
Tyler Doohan, of Penfield, N.Y., noticed the fire in his family’s trailer on Jan. 19 and woke up six other people, including a 4-year-old and a 6-year-old. He went back inside to try to help his grandfather, but both were overcome by heat and smoke along with the boy’s great-grandfather.
Firefighters, holding axes and wearing full Class A uniforms, stood next to the boy’s casket for two days, keeping the sane solemn vigil that they would keep if another firefighter had died in the line of duty. Local fire leaders said Tyler’s actions should remind people that everyone has that selfless call to service inside them.
“The young man acted with a lot of courage and bravery to try to rescue his grandfather after rescuing other members of his family,” said Penfield Fire Chief Chris Ebmeyer . “He showed valor and strength, and paid the ultimate sacrifice.”
Ebmeyer declared Doohan to be an honorary firefighter and ordered a special helmet made with his name inscribed on it.
According to CNN, Tyler’s funeral drew firefighters from around the region.
