What people have been saying

Alan Hawes

A Charleston firefighter stands at the front of the Sofa Super Store on Tuesday after nine firefighters were killed Monday night.

For more on the firefighters, see our editorial page and illustration, Page 10A

"Laura and I mourn the devastating loss of some of America's bravest. Our prayers are with the families and friends of nine firefighters from Charleston, South Carolina, who selflessly gave their own lives to protect their community. These firefighters were true heroes who demonstrated great skill and courage. Their unwavering commitment to their neighbors and to the city of Charleston is an inspiration to all Americans."

— President Bush

"What happened in Charleston last night is an all too tragic reminder of the danger faced by firefighters and other men and women in uniform as they put themselves in harm's way each and every day to keep the rest of us safe. These are truly some of South Carolina's bravest, who in this case made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. I'd ask each and every South Carolinian to join me, Jenny and the boys in keeping these nine families in our thoughts and prayers in the difficult weeks and months ahead."

— Gov. Mark Sanford

"Today our city, state and nation suffered a great tragedy. Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the nine brave firefighters who gave their lives trying to save others. It is a tragic reminder of the risks that these men and women undertake daily on our behalf, and unfortunately one we often take for granted. We must honor these heroes for what they have done and for their ultimate sacrifice, and close ranks to provide whatever love, support and assistance we can to their family and friends."

— S.C. Senate President Pro Tem Glenn McConnell

"What happened in Charleston is a tragic reminder of the danger faced by firefighters and other men and women in uniform as they put themselves in harm's way each and every day to keep the rest of us safe. The city of North Charleston Fire Department will continue to assist their colleagues in a support capacity and stand ready to provide any assistance needed. We often work and train closely together with the city Fire Department and share in the loss of our fallen brethren."

— North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

"There are no words to express our sorrow. All of us at Sofa Super Store are devastated and heartbroken by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the heroic firefighters who lost their lives."

— Store owner Herb Goldstein

"This devastating loss is one that touched the hearts of our entire nation, and we grieve with them. Dr. Martin Luther King once said, 'Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. ... You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love. And you can be that servant.' These firefighters were public servants in the truest sense. They answered the call to serve their community, and today Charleston is a better place for their service."

— U.S. Rep. and Majority Whip James Clyburn, who represents the Charleston area

"The city of Charleston has suffered a great loss, but the entire state feels this deep pain. ... Today the House will adjourn in memory of the nine firefighters who died in the line of duty, an honor usually reserved for a single individual, but we felt this was an appropriate honor for all these men. ... The South Carolina House of Representatives will be sending nine South Carolina flags that have flown over the Statehouse to the families."

— S.C. House Speaker Bobby Harrell

"You don't ever go in thinking you're not coming out."

— Jonathan Ryan, full-time Mount Pleasant firefighter and volunteer with the Pine Ridge Rural Fire Department in Berkeley County

"This is a huge tragedy, not only for the city of Charleston, but for small places like Pine Ridge."

— Whitesville Rural Fire Chief Tim Stephenson

"The United States has not experienced such a devastating loss of firefighters since the horrific events on September 11, 2001. May the Charleston ... Fire Department, led by Chief Rusty Thomas, as well as emergency personnel around the country, forever fill this massive void with the legacy left behind by these brave fallen firefighters. Let their legacy not be engulfed by flames and reduced to rubble but rather let it embolden and encourage others to serve in their honor and continue their mission to public service."

— Joint statement by U.S. Sens. Lindsey Graham and Jim DeMint of South Carolina