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Thousands Come Out In Show Of Support For Fallen Inwood, L.I. Firefighter

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- Thousands of firefighters came out on Tuesday night, in a show of support for a fallen colleague.

Representing dozens of fire departments they marched to the church where the wake was held for Joseph Sanford Jr.

The veteran Inwood firefighter died after he was hurt battling a December 19, blaze at a home in Woodmere.

Thousands Come Out In Show Of Support For Fallen Inwood Firefighter

Family members flew in from Florida and the Carolinas.

"He gave his life. Honest, upbeat, all around person. This is the life he lived," a cousin told 1010 WINS' Carol D'Auria.

Sanford Jr. was a 17-year veteran. He plummeted into the basement of the home when the floor gave through.

Funeral services are set for Wednesday morning. In honor of his service to Nassau County flags on all county buildings will fly at half-staff until January 30.

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