International Firefighters' Day: SONAPI Pays Tribute to Those Who Always Go Beyond the Flames
By La Rédaction · Port-au-Prince
· 2 min read · Updated 24 April 2026
Translated from French — AI-assisted and reviewed by the editorial team. The French version is authoritative. Read the original · About our translation policy
PORT-AU-PRINCE.— A tribute ceremony was organized at the premises of the National Society of Industrial Parks (SONAPI) this Sunday, May 4, 2025, to highlight the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of firefighters who risk their lives to save others.
On this occasion, SONAPI's general management reaffirmed its commitment to these men and women who work tirelessly for industrial and civil security. This day was also an opportunity for the institution's General Director, Agronomist Engineer Justin Petricks, to address the entire fire department with a vibrant message of encouragement.
SONAPI's leader praised the courage, discipline, and dedication of the firefighters, while emphasizing the essential role they play in the modern vision of security within the industrial park.
Referring to the graduation of the latest class of firefighters on August 22, 2024, Petricks emphasized that this is a crucial step demonstrating the institution's constant efforts to train qualified professionals capable of facing major challenges related to prevention and emergency response.
In his remarks, the general director also noted the importance of the official handover of keys to the new buildings on March 25. «This symbolic gesture represents not only an improvement in working conditions but also concrete recognition of the invaluable contribution of these agents within the SONAPI community,» he said.
«We will always be driven by this desire to support firefighters in their noble and demanding mission,» concluded Justin Petricks, reiterating his commitment to continue investing in infrastructure, equipment, and ongoing training for the corps. «Because beyond the flames, it is lives, industries, and an entire future that these men and women protect every day,» he proclaimed.
It should be recalled that every year, May 4 is a special date in the firefighters' calendar. It is dedicated to honoring the sense of sacrifice of these men and women who are always on the front lines in cases of fire. A symbolic religious ceremony was celebrated as a sign of spiritual recognition and moral reinforcement for these everyday heroes.
Jean Mapou
