Since the devastating bushfires began across the country in September, many images, video and stories have struck a chord - not just with fellow Australians, but globally. The most heartbreaking to surface from the ongoing climate crisis is that of volunteer firefighter Andrew O'Dwyer's funeral.
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20-month-old Charlotte O'Dwyer was captured standing by her father's side while wearing his helmet and newly presented service medal, and the images are truly heartbreaking.
The 36-year-old father was one of two volunteer firefighters who died battling the ongoing blazes. The incident also killed 32-year-old Geoffrey Keaton, who was a father to his own 20-month-old child, born just two days apart from Charlotte, 9 News reports.
RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons delivered a eulogy, telling Charlotte that Andrew, who joined the service in 2003, was a “hero” before pinning the medal on her dress. Mr Fitzsimmons also presented Mr O’Dwyer’s partner, Melissa, with a Commissioner’s Commendation for extraordinary service and bravery — the highest accolade that can be given to NSW firefighters.
According to the Daily Mail Commissioner Fitzsimmons told the crowd, “You need to know that your dad was a selfless man, he was a special man. There are no words that can adequately describe our sorrow, our respect, our regard, for the loss of Andrew…in that tragic accident."
“Charlotte should know her father was a selfless and special man, who only left because he was a hero."
Our thoughts are with the O'Dwyer family.
