Kansas City Firefighters Honored for Ultimate Sacrifice

As two Kansas City firefighters were saluted by thousands Saturday afternoon, Chief Paul Berardi vowed to share what he learns about the tragic incident with personnel around the country.

Firefighters Larry Leggio and John Mesh were killed Monday night when a building collapsed.

Bernardi said while hearts are broken, the KCFD is standing strong as it stands together to honor their brothers. And, he promised the future will see a stronger and safer department.

“Multiple victims were saved,” he said, referring to Leggio and Mesh’s last alarm. “…I am proud to be at the helm of this organization.”

The chief continued: “The Kansas City Fire Department will learn from the incident, and teach…”

At times, he paused struggling to regain composure as he addressed the families. 

"I recognize your sacrifice. I thank you, for you gave more than was ever expected..."

Pumper 10 and Truck 2, draped in black shrouds, were parked on the sides of the flower-laden stage. Leggio was aboard Truck 2, while Mesh rode Pumper 10 to his final alarm.

An emotional Joe Leggio thanked the Kansas City Royals for helping to try to ease the pain, even for only a short while.

He recalled as a child how he and his younger brother, Larry, listened to the scanner and often went with their mother to watch his firefighter dad at work.

On Monday night, Missy Leggio was on her way home from the store when she saw the flashing lights in her neighborhood.

“She went to see if Larry was there. Truck 2, Larry’s company was close so he had to be there…She called mom and said: ‘Our baby’s here.”

He continued as his voice shook: “She saw the collapse and…the ambulances speed away…”

A fellow firefighter recognized her, and she collapsed in his arms.

The outpouring of support will remain with them forever.

Mayor Sly James told those gathered at the packed Spirit Center that the firefighters' smiles and actions showed both men truly loved their jobs, and never sought recognition.

“The loss reaches far and wide,” he said, adding the city appreciates the overwhelming show of support. “…Grief has a start date, but not an end date.”

He then sang the first stanza of Amazing Grace.

Sly and Berardi handed American flags to each widow, and spent several minutes speaking with them. Hugs also were delivered to family members.

“Larry and John were firefighters you could count on,” said IAFF Local 42 President Bill Gavin, adding that their courage, commitment, sacrifice and dedication are examples to follow.

The captain went on to tell Mesh’s daughters: “Feel your daddy’s presence watching over you.”

To Leggio’s wife, he said while it won’t ease the pain, she may have solace knowing he died doing what he loved.

IAFF General President Harold A. Schaitberger said firefighters know how dangerous their jobs are but don’t focus on it. Instead, they respond to citizens during their time of need.

“This past Monday the world was turned upside down. It turned into a day of tragedy for on Oct. 12 we lost Larry and John…”

He said despite their tremendous loss and thinking “there by the grace of God go I,” he has no doubt that when the alarm sounds, they will respond.

While Leggio and Mesh would say they were just doing their jobs, Schaitberger said their actions, their sacrifice was a big deal, one that will not be forgotten.

He was joined by Gavin and others as he presented IAFF Medals of Valor to the widows. The local firefighters also spent time chatting briefly with family members.

As the service ended, a dispatcher called Mesh and Leggio. When they failed to respond, she announced they had answered their final alarm.

A bell was rung as well signaling the firefighters’ last alarm.