By: Richard L. Smith
The somber funeral arrangements for Newark firefighter Augusto "Augie" Acabou, who tragically lost his life while battling a fierce fire onboard a cargo ship, will occur today at 10 a.m. at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark's North Ward.
As a child growing up in Newark, the love of firefighters always took center stage for everyone in our community. We simply adored their brave efforts of putting their lives on the line to save others.
Firefighter Acabou’s heroic actions and ultimate sacrifice will be remembered and honored by his fellow firefighters, family, friends, and the entire Newark community and around the world.
Firefighter Acabou bravely battled the intense blaze on a cargo ship last week in Port Newark when tragedy struck for him and his partner Wayne 'Bears' Brooks.
'Augie's' dedication and selflessness in the face of danger will forever be remembered.
Today, he will be laid to rest with full honors, surrounded by hundreds of firefighters across the county who came to pay their respects and support his grieving family.
The funeral procession will make its way through the streets of Newark, as firefighters, police, and emergency responders, in their distinguished uniforms, will stand shoulder to shoulder to honor their fallen comrade.
The tight-knit firefighting community came together to show their solidarity and to bid a final farewell to a true hero at Wednesday night's wake.
Firefighter Acabou’s dedication to serving and protecting the city of Newark will never be forgotten. His commitment to saving lives and ensuring the safety of others serves as an inspiration to all.
His family, friends, and fellow firefighters mourn his loss deeply, but they also find solace in knowing he made the ultimate sacrifice while doing what he loved.
Newark's beautiful Basilica of the Sacred Heart will host the first of two funerals with speeches and memories will be shared of another of Newark's bravest.
As the Newark Fire Department and the community mourn the loss of Firefighter Augusto Acabou, they also stand united in supporting his family.
The legacy of his heroism will forever live on, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who put their lives on the line to protect and serve.
Road closures for funerals:
Beginning from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Thursday, July 13 and Friday, July 14
All of the above locations including:
Extend Victoria Avenue between Garside Street to Stone Street
Cutler Street between Park Avenue and 7th Avenue
Stone Street between Park Avenue and 7th Avenue
Crane Street between Summer Avenue and Cutler Street