Governor Mills Orders Flags To Half-Staff Day Of Firefighter’s Funeral

“Captain Joel Barnes laid down his life to save a fellow firefighter as together, they fought to protect Maine families. Joel will be forever remembered as a hero for his bravery and service to our state,” said Governor Janet Mills in a press release.

Barnes, of the Berwick Fire Department in southern Maine, was in his early 30s when he lost his life while fighting a fire in an apartment house.  As of this writing, his funeral arrangements have not been released.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Joel’s family, friends, fellow firefighters and the people of Berwick. I ask every family in Maine to join with me in honoring Joel’s service and wishing for the swift recovery of the four firefighters still hospitalized, said Governor Mills this past Saturday.

We thank Captain Barnes for his dedication and his service to his community, and to all other first responders that we count on each and every day to help us in our time of need.