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Remembering Master Firefighter Preston Fant: Full coverage
Master Firefighter Preston Fant, who died while rescuing colleague in a warehouse fire, was remembered during a service at Truist Park. Here's a look at the full coverage from FOX 5 Atlanta.
COBB COUNTY, Ga. - Thousands gathered at Truist Park on Thursday to honor Master Firefighter Preston Fant, a 21-year veteran of the DeKalb County Fire Rescue Department who died last week while trying to save a colleague during a warehouse fire.
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Master Firefighter Preston Fant was 'dedicated, selfless, faithful'
DeKalb County is mourning the loss of Master Firefighter Preston Fant, who was laid to rest Thursday after giving his life in the line of duty.
Funeral at Truist Park
What we know:
Fant’s casket was placed on home plate at the Braves’ stadium, the first time a funeral of its kind has been held there. The venue was chosen in part because of his devotion to the team.
Preston Fant Memorial Service Program
Visitation began at 1 p.m., followed by the service at 2 p.m. Afterward, a procession took Fant to Kennesaw Memorial Park for a private graveside service.
Fant leaves behind his wife and five children. A GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $76,000 for his family.
After the ceremony at Truist Park, a procession escorted Fant to Kennesaw Memorial Park for a private graveside service.
Honoring Master Firefighter Preston Fant
What they're saying:
"He was satisfied being a firefighter who came to work ready to do the job presented the shift. Preston had the heart of a public servant," Fire Chief Darnell Fullum said.
Fant’s wife, Leigh, delivered an emotional tribute. "I'm not sure how to do life without you but I know you will be guiding me along the way. My heart aches because you are gone. You are my soulmate the love of my life and I feel like there's a hole in my soul that will never be filled," she said.
Captain Jack Sosobe of Station 24 remembered Fant as both a leader and a friend. "We will miss your skills. You love... love will stay with us always," he said.
DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson declared Sept. 18 as Preston Fant Day, calling him an example of service and sacrifice.
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Fallen firefighter's body on way to Truist Park
Fallen DeKalb County firefighter Preston Fant was transported to Truist Park at around noon on Thursday for his funeral service. The funeral is being held at the ballpark where the Atlanta Braves play.
Fant, a 21-year veteran of the department, died earlier this month while trying to rescue a fellow firefighter during a warehouse fire. Colleagues described him as a father figure, a skilled firefighter, and a devoted family man who made it his mission to help in the toughest situations. He was trained in swiftwater rescue, high-rise operations, and trench rescues.
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The Braves’ stadium was open to the public for the funeral, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
RELATED: Procession route following funeral for DeKalb County firefighter released
Fant leaves behind his wife and five children. His colleagues and loved ones say he was deeply respected and dedicated to both his family and his community.
Fallen firefighter's GoFundMe
What you can do:
A GoFundMe campaign continues to raise money for Fant’s family. More than $76,000 has been collected so far, including individual donations as large as $6,000.
RELATED: DeKalb County shares fundraiser for family of fallen firefighter