Rehoboth Fire Station 2 Dedicated to Fallen Firefighter

Rehoboth Fire Station #2 was renamed in honor of Kenneth D. Marshall Jr. in a ceremony at the station on July 13. More than 100 family members, friends, co-workers, local officials and residents attended the ceremony.

Marshall died while responding to a call on November 25, 2010. He was 33 years old.

“We are here today to honor our brother and friend who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Deputy Chief Frank Barresi.

Fire Chief Robert Pray recalled the fateful day, saying that firefighters always do what they have to do.

“It was the saddest day in the Rehoboth Fire Department,” said Chief Pray.

A stone memorial with Marshall’s likeness and two benches with Marshall’s name were unveiled at the ceremony.

The sign outside the building bearing Marshall’s name was covered with a cloth and it was also unveiled at the end of the ceremony.

Selectmen Chairman Mike Costello praised Marshall and his fellow firefighters for their service.

“His children when they are grown will be able to pass the station and remember what a great man their father was,” said Costello.

Costello said thanks should go to the families who support the men and women in all the unselfish things they do.

Rev. John Amaral, the fire department chaplain, performed the invocation and benediction.

“Everyone who walks by will know we have living heroes among us,” said Rev. Amaral.

Many people commented afterward that the ceremony was beautiful.

“They did an awesome job and I’m very proud of what they did,” said Marshall’s father, Ken Marshall Sr. about the dedication and ceremony.

Pray said a lot of work went into fixing up the station, including painting the exterior, and power washing the floors and he wanted to thank everyone who donated to the project.

Marshall was a lifelong resident of Rehoboth and a graduate of Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School. He was employed at J.H. Lynch.

Marshall was a third generation volunteer call firefighter for the department. His father, Ken Sr., served for 20 years.

“Let us celebrate his life with a great big smile like the contagious one he was known for,” said Barresi in his closing speech.