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Remembering First Responders Who Lost Their Lives

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- Lost in the line of duty. Maryland sets aside this day to honor fallen heroes.

Alex DeMetrick reports each year seems to bring more.

Their traditions never change from one year to the next.

The skirl of bagpipes warriors once marched to, now honor the first responders who put their lives on the line. Police, fire, paramedics, corrections officers--all share risk, as their families share loss.

Maryland remembers those who have fallen.

"To honor a lot of your loved ones who are the true heroes of this world, that make our lives better," said Rick Dempsey, Orioles Hall of Famer.

Melissa Ayala's triplets were born after her husband, a Montgomery County police sergeant, was killed.

"It's the experience for the children to see how close-knit the police department and the fire department are. It's just a moment for all of us to come together, to see each other and support each other," Ayala said.

"And it's with a heavy hearts we add seven names to the ranks of our fallen heroes," said Governor O'Malley. "Deputy First Class Terea Testerman, Firefighter Christopher Staley, Officer First Class William Talbert, Private First Class Officer Adrian Morris, Officer Forrest Taylor, Corporal Charlies Licato, Sergeant Ian Loughran."

Since Fallen Heroes Day began 28 years ago, 161 names have been entered onto a memorial plaque at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.

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