Elizabeth Emblem awarded to firefighter who lost his life in Edinburgh fire seventeen years ago (1)

Firefighter Ewan Williamson, who tragically died responding to a fire in Edinburgh in July 2009, was posthumously awarded the Elizabeth Emblem at a Commemoration Service in front of St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh today.

The Elizabeth Emblem is presented to family members of those who have died in public service. It is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.

The Commemoration Service was attended by Firefighter Williamson’s family, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Deputy Chief Officer Andy Watt, Deputy Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron, alongside representatives from the Fire Brigades Union.

During the Service, a minute’s silence was observed followed by a wreath laying ceremony. 

DCO Watt said: “Seventeen years ago Firefighter Ewan Williamson lost his life in the line of duty. Ewan, his family, friends, colleagues and loved ones, will always remain in our thoughts.  

“Today, Ewan’s sister Rebecca received the Elizabeth Emblem on his behalf, which recognises the ultimate sacrifice made by Ewan, and the extraordinary lengths our firefighters go to, to protect and serve Scotland’s communities.

“The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will always remember Ewan. We will continue to commemorate his life and honour his selfless dedication and bravery.” 

The Williamson sisters, Rachel and Rebecca said: “Our family would like to extend their thanks to Ewan’s colleagues and friends at Tollcross Green Watch and the Fire Brigades Union for their support and friendship in the years following Ewan’s tragic passing.

“They have also been incredibly supportive following the sad passing of our mother, Linda.

“Ewan’s big, beautiful smile lives on in our hearts.” 

At 00:38am, on 12 July 2009, Firefighter Williamson was a member of the first attending crews at a fire in the basement of the Balmoral Bar on Dalry Road in Edinburgh. 

As the devastating fire spread, Ewan and his colleagues were deployed to tackle the fire in the basement and ground floor levels. This enabled other personnel to carry out multiple rescues of occupants from domestic flats in the three floors above, whose lives were endangered by the smoke and flames. 

Ewan, 35, who was a member of the Green Watch at Tollcross Community Fire Station, entered the building wearing breathing apparatus as part of the efforts to extinguish the fire. Tragically, he became trapped during firefighting operations and lost his life in the line of duty. 

A total of 16 people, including a baby, were rescued that night, an outcome that could have been very different had it not been for the bravery of Ewan and his colleagues responding to the incident. 

Colin Brown, FBU Executive Council Member for Scotland said: "Ewan is remembered as a friend to all who knew him and a brilliant firefighter and comrade. He made the ultimate sacrifice serving the public.

“Today our thoughts are with the Williamson family who are coming to terms with the recent passing of Ewan's mum Linda.

“Ewan, Rachel, Rebecca, Ewan's colleagues and all those that loved him are never far from our thoughts and his loss will never be forgotten.”