Mumbai: Bravehearts from Mumbai's fire brigade, who battled not only fire but gunfire too during the the 26/11 attacks to save hundreds of lives, are yet to receive their due.
With just a few days left for the first anniversary of the terror assault, one of the most audacious in recent memory, these firemen are still to receive the gallantry award announced by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM).
If the images of Hotel Taj with its iconic dome enveloped in fire and smoke are permanently etched in the nation's collective memory, so are those of the fire fighters toiling for three long days putting out the blaze at multiple terror locations and rescuing the hostages.
Rubbing shoulders with the elite NSG commandos were the over 1,200 firemen, all unarmed, risking their lives while fighting the raging flames triggered by the terrorists holed up at Hotel Taj, the Trident and Nariman House during the terror siege.
"I am proud of my men who showed exemplary courage during the attacks. They not only put out the blaze but saved over 400 people from the jaws of death risking their lives," Chief Fire Officer, Uday Tatkare said.
