Vigil Held To Honor Fallen Philadelphia Firefighter Joyce Craig
By Justin Udo, David Spunt
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A community gathered to reflect and pay their respects to Joyce Craig, the fallen Philadelphia firefighter who lost her life in the line of duty.
She died Tuesday morning while battling a house fire in West Oak Lane.
About 50 people held a vigil in Craig's honor in front of Engine 64 Tuesday night.
"She was friendly, outgoing and would prove to you right away that a woman could do the job."
With candles in hand a few dozen friends, family, fellow firefighters and community members met in front of Engine 64 in Northeast Philadelphia to remember Joyce Craig.
"It's sad, nobody want to see someone die in the line of duty. It's just tough."
Neighbors organized the event, and some of her colleagues told the crowd about Craig.
"She continually was outstanding doing everything she could to make sure somebody was saved or property was saved and we miss her," said Lieutenant Benny Hutchins.
Hutchins worked closely with Craig over the past three years at Engine 64.
"She didn't want to let gender get in the way of anything. She wanted to prove that point," Hutchins said.
Many of the people from the area who came out did not personally know Craig, but they say knowing one of the people who helped keep them safe has died hurts.
"She was part of the community and we support the firefighters and it's sad to see one of them fall in the line of duty like that."
During the vigil local pastors said prayers and gave words of comfort to the crowd.
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