Huge gathering expected for services to honor fallen firefighter, EMS technician

GEORGETOWN - Hundreds of first responders and a long line of emergency vehicles are expected to assemble in the heart of Sussex County this week to honor fallen volunteer firefighter and EMS logistics technician Thomas W. Berry III, who was tragically lost in the line of duty while on the scene of a motor vehicle collision near Georgetown.

The memorial service, with full firefighter honors, is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22, at Crossroad Community Church, 20684 State Forest Road, west of Georgetown.

Friends, family, and others who wish to pay their respects may do so from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the church, ahead of the service.

The service will be open to the public. However, no recording devices or photography will be permitted for anyone inside the sanctuary before, during, or afterward. Additionally, there will be no livestream. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to be in queue as early as possible during calling hours, as seating will be limited.

Following the service, a lengthy procession that could top 100 or more emergency units will escort the casket as it makes its way from the church to the Georgetown Fire Company, Sussex County EMS offices, and the Ellendale Volunteer Fire Company in the ceremonial rite to answer Mr. Berry’s ‘final alarm’.

Interment will follow in the Ellendale Cemetery.

Traffic impacts in the Georgetown and Ellendale areas are expected to be significant Thursday afternoon, particularly between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Motorists should be aware in advance and plan their trips accordingly. Sign boards with detour information will be placed along the procession route, which includes US 113, SR 18/404, as well as numerous side streets in both communities. Visit deldot.gov for the latest traffic information.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Mr. Berry’s memory be made to any local fire company. Additionally, letters of condolences to the family and/or any of the grieving agencies should be addressed and directed to the following: