Hartford students marched from Breakthrough II Magnet School to the firehouse on Blue Hills Avenue to hand-deliver cards Wednesday after the brainchild of one student grew beyond what anyone had imagined.
According to John Mancini, the engine mate of fallen Hartford firefighter Kevin Bell, one student had the idea of bringing a handmade card to Engine 16 to show support in the wake of Bell's death.
The plan spread like wildfire and soon other students joined in and collaborated in what became a school-wide initiative.
"We are right down the street from this firehouse and our students really wanted to come up here and just say thank you, thank you for everything you do each and every day, keeping us safe," explained Principal Tammy Cassile.
Police closed Blue Hills Avenue to traffic on Wednesday as the student body marched from the magnet school on Lyme Street to the firehouse, accompanied by a police escort.
One student from each grade approached the firehouse and handed over cards and well-wishes on behalf of their peers, adding hundreds of cards to the ever-growing memorial for Bell outside the fire station.
"Kevin would be so engaged with everyone here. He would be really just full of joy," Mancini said. "He was a very animated man, very animated and passionate."
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Mancini said the firefighters were touched and gave students fire hats in return.
"It's humbling, really, to know that we're appreciated and the community's so grateful for what we do," said Hartford Fire Capt. Helene Lynch.
Lynch said cards and patches have been pouring in from all over the world in what she calls an overwhelming outpouring of love and support.
Bell was killed fighting a two-alarm at a home on Blue Hills Avenue down the street from the fire station on Oct. 7. He was laid to rest Monday morning.
Three other firefighters were injured, one of them critically.
