Thousands Gather for Firefighters

HOUSTON - Two of Houston's firefighters were remembered this morning in a memorial attended by thousands of people.

A sea of blue and an ocean of tears was evident as Houston bid farewell to the two fallen firefighters.

Firefighters and well-wishers packed into Grace Community Church on Thursday morning for a memorial service for HFD Captain James Harlow and Probationary Firefighter Damion Hobbs.

The two died in a house fire on the morning of Easter Sunday.

Mayor Bill White and the Houston City Council participated in the mile-long procession from Fire Station 93 to the church.

Although it was just a mile, there were so many mourners that it took more than two hours to get everyone from the station to their seats in the church. Fire departments from as far as Alberta, Canada sent supportive delegations to attend the service.

One firefighter told FOX 26 News that these funerals are important to show firefighters they are not alone, but also remind them they are mortal as well.

A private service will be held for the families of the two firemen on Friday.

Harlow is survived by a wife and three children and Hobbs by his parents.