Benefit Concert Planned to Honor Firefighters Killed in Back Bay Fire
Engine 33/Ladder 15 where Edward Walsh and Michael Kennedy were stationed. / Photo by Yiqing Shao
The Great American Foundation has announced a benefit concert honoring Edward Walsh and Michael Kennedy, the two Boston firefighters who were killed while battling a nine-alarm Back Bay fire on March 26. The “Boston Firefighter Response Concert” will take place Monday, April 7, at the Paradise Rock Club.
The organizers of the event from TGAF were so moved by the sacrifice made by Walsh and Kennedy that they decided to host this event to raise funds for their families.
“We are very proud to be able to organize this event on behalf of those we can never really truly thank,” said TGAF cofounder Brian Malone in a press release. “The bravery of these firefighters is inspiring, and we hope that this small gesture will bring some peace to their families.”
Musical guest Dalton and the Sheriffs will perform at Monday’s event, which also includes a raffle and silent auction. The entertainment, venue, and items for the auction and raffle (which include Celtics tickets, hotel stays, and more) were all donated so that all proceeds would benefit the victims’ families. Local officials, first responders, and other notable figures—former Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek has been confirmed—are expected to attend the concert.
In honor of the station where Walsh and Kennedy were based, the Boston Fire Department’s Engine 33/Ladder 15 on Boylston Street, attendees can choose between two ticket prices: “The Ladder 15” for $15.33 or “The Engine 33” for $33.15. (Both tickets are general admission; customers can choose which amount to donate.) TGAF is also accepting donations on fundraise.com.
The “Boston Firefighter Response Concert” will take place Monday, April 7, 7 p.m., at the Paradise Rock Club, 967 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-562-8800. Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com.
Dalton and the Sheriffs Photo Provided
