Welland Fire Station #3 renamed in honour of fallen firefighter and advocate

The City of Welland has announced it will be renaming Fire Station #3 in honour of the late Captain Craig Bowman, who died of esophageal cancer in 2023.

Captain Bowman served as a firefighter for 23 years, and was an advocate for systemic change for firefighters and their families. He was posthumously awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his service.

Bowman’s advocacy led to significant legislative reforms, including Ontario’s Bill 127, known as The Captain Craig Bowman Act, which reduces the service-time requirement for presumptive coverage of esophageal cancer.

Esophageal cancer is common in firefighters, who are continuously exposed to cancer-causing airborne chemicals and other fire-scene hazards whilst on the job. Thus, Bowman’s death was recognized as a death in the line-of-duty.

“Captain Bowman was more than a colleague, he was a leader, a mentor, and a friend whose courage continues to inspire us,” Matt Richardson, acting fire chief of Welland Fire and Emergency Services said.

“By naming Station 3 in his honour, we are not only recognizing his service to the City of Welland, but also the lasting legacy of his advocacy. This tribute ensures that his courage, sacrifice, and leadership are remembered every time a firefighter walks through those doors.”

The decision to rename the station reflects requests from Captain Bowman’s family and members of Welland Fire and Emergency Services.

READ MORE:Hamilton police respond to three knife-related calls in 12 hours, one involving teens