JOPPA, Md. — When Howard County Fire Engine 101 pulled into the parking lot of the Mountain Christian Church in Joppa, Maryland, it went under a large American flag held up by two ladder trucks. Then bag pipers began to play as first responders saluted in uniform on a hot Saturday afternoon.
They were paying their respects to 34-year-old Howard County Fire and EMS Lt. Nathan Flynn, whose flag-draped casket was being carried by the fire engine he so proudly served on.
“Today we lay our brother Flynn to rest. There is a void in our hearts that will forever remain,” said Howard County Deputy Fire Chief Bill Anuszewski.
Flynn lost his life on Monday while fighting a fire at a home in Clarksville. During the fight, the floor beneath him collapsed. Flynn fell through the floor from the first floor to the basement.
“Nathan Flynn is a hero who was called home much too soon,” said Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan who spoke at the celebration of life ceremony.
Hogan was one of many elected officials who showed up to pay their respects to the fallen firefighter and his family. So did more than two thousand others, including many fellow first responders from departments near and far.
Flynn was remembered not only as a dedicated firefighter, but also a loving husband and father of five children. Flynn’s wife Celeste Flynn said she decided to speak because she believes that is what her husband would have wanted her to do.
“He tried to tell me that I knew this day could happen. Did I ever think I’d be standing here? Absolutely not,” Celeste said.
Flynn was remembered for his work at the department, which included conducting training for fellow firefighters. He was also remembered as a man who went all in at everything he did and was always there for others in need.
“I will be here for his family, I promise, just like I know he would be for mine,” said friend and fellow Howard County Firefighter Brandon Thibeault.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, several police and fire helicopters flew over the crowd as mourners watched the casket be placed back into the fire engine. Then a final alarm was sounded and the crowd paused to remember Flynn.
