An emotional gesture of international solidarity emerged when a German firefighter sent a postcard to the Lisbon Sapadores Firefighters, expressing gratitude for their efforts in the aftermath of the Elevador da Glória derailment. This tragic incident resulted in 16 fatalities and left over 20 people injured.
The postcard, recently shared by the Lisbon Fire Department on their Facebook page, features Portuguese tiles on the front. On the back, heartfelt words of gratitude and support are inscribed.
“Dear firefighters and paramedics: I want to express my sincere gratitude for your work during yesterday’s [Wednesday, September 3] tragedy in Lisbon. Having dedicated my life to firefighting and as a paramedic specialist, I am well aware of the emotional toll such an operation can have,” the German firefighter emphasized, adding that his “thoughts” are with both the victims and the personnel involved.
“Men and women who bear this burden while giving their all to protect others, please know that your dedication and strength are deeply appreciated and will never be forgotten. With respect and solidarity, your German colleague,” he concluded.
The gesture deeply moved the entire Lisbon firefighters’ team. “Two days after the tragic accident at the Elevador da Glória, the RSBL received a postcard at the Martim Moniz station with words of solidarity and support. A simple gesture that touched the entire team during such a difficult time. For the strength and affection it conveys, we decided to share it with everyone. Thank you for being there,” the Lisbon firefighters shared on social media.
Approximately a hundred personnel, predominantly firefighters from various Lisbon corporations, participated in the rescue operation following the Elevador da Glória derailment. The mission, which extended into the early hours, concluded at dawn.
The alert for the tragic accident was issued shortly after 6 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3. A total of 16 people, including five Portuguese nationals, lost their lives in this tragic incident involving individuals of various nationalities.
More than 20 others sustained injuries, some of which were serious.
