Tolland Remembering Firefighter Who Died In The Line Of Duty

TOLLAND, CT — Tolland Fire Department officials this weekend were honoring and remembering Lt. Gary Passaro, who made "the ultimate sacrifice" 34 years ago.

Passaro died in the line of duty on Jan. 18, 1990, while participating in a hazardous materials drill at Tolland High School, officials said. He was rescuing mock victims when he suffered a heart attack that proved to be fatal, officials said.

Passaro joined the Tolland Fire Department in 1977. He reached the rank of fire lieutenant and chairman of the board of directors.

Passaro also served in the military during the Vietnam War.

"Thank you, Gary, for serving your community and country. You will always be remembered," officials said.

A memorial collage was created by Honorary Member Joe Duval from, from the files of the Tolland Fire Department.