Nine Heroes Remembered After 19 Years

Nineteen years after a catastrophic fire claimed nine Charleston firefighters, their sacrifice still echoes through the department and the community. Families gathered for an annual tribute, honoring Brandon Thompson, Brad Baity, Louis Mulkey, Mark Kelsey, Mike Benke, William Hutchinson, Michael French, Earl Drayton, and Melvin Champaign — men whose loss sparked nationwide reforms in fire service protocols. Fire Chief Dan Curia and Assistant Chief T.J. Axson reflected on how their legacy drives daily excellence and unwavering duty, ensuring their bravery never fades — a solemn reminder that every call answered today carries the weight of their enduring courage. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d3b18b46e71c5847