Avalon to Hold Memorial Honoring Fallen Firefighter Thomas A. Thompson

AVALON, NEW JERSEY — The Avalon Volunteer Fire Department will host a public memorial later this month in remembrance of Firefighter Thomas A. “Tommy” Thompson, who was killed in the line of duty nearly seven decades ago. Thompson died on June 29, 1956, while responding to the Avalon Ice House Fire. He was 41 years old at the time of his death. The department has planned a memorial service for Sunday, June 29, 2025, to honor his life and sacrifice. The ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. at the Avalon Firefighters Memorial, located at 30th Street and Dune Drive in Avalon, New Jersey. Community members, local officials, and first responders are invited to attend the gathering to recognize Thompson’s service and remember his commitment to public safety. The Thompson family is expected to be present for the ceremony. Organizers say the event is meant not only to commemorate a fallen firefighter but to show continued appreciation for the daily sacrifices made by first responders. The Avalon Volunteer Fire Department expressed gratitude for the support of the public and those planning to attend. The Firefighters Memorial stands as a reminder of the risks faced by emergency personnel and the lives lost in the line of duty. Thompson’s name remains etched into the history of Avalon’s firefighting community.