Family members, friends, fellow firefighters and hundreds of mourners gathered Thursday in southern Crete to bid farewell to 25-year-old firefighter Pantelis Diamantakis, who lost his life while battling the devastating wildfire in the Rethymno region.
The funeral was held at the Church of St. Nektarios in Episkopi, Fourfouras, where colleagues from the Hellenic Fire Service and local residents paid tribute to the young firefighter, who died while trying to protect lives, property and the natural environment.
The local community has been deeply shaken by his death, with mourners carrying flowers as they honored a young man remembered for his dedication and service.
Diamantakis was from Fourfouras in the Amari municipality. He had completed his studies at the University of Thessaloniki before choosing to serve as a seasonal firefighter. Those who knew him described him as a kind, humble and well-liked young man.
Later on Thursday, funeral services are also scheduled for 58-year-old firefighter Manolis Stratidakis, who was killed during the same firefighting operation.
His funeral will take place at 5 p.m. at the Church of the Annunciation in Gerakari, Amari, where family members, friends, colleagues and local residents are expected to gather to pay their final respects.
