WORCESTER, MASS. (WHDH) - Tributes are pouring in from across Massachusetts in honor of 39-year-old Worcester fire Lieutenant Jason Menard, who died after “heroically and selflessly” saving his crew from a four-alarm blaze that engulfed a home hours before he was supposed to leave on a Disney vacation with his family.

Firefighters stood and saluted as flags across the state were lowered to half staff to mourn the loss of a hero.

“It is because of brave men and women like Lt. Menard and his team, that we all rest easy at night,” Governor Charlie Baker said at a press conference following Menard’s tragic death.

Crowds of people lined the streets of Worcester to watch as a procession transported Menard’s body home from the medical examiner’s office in Boston. Ladder trucks also hung American flags from many highway overpasses along the Massachusetts Turnpike.

Others left flowers behind at the fire station where he worked.

They say his last act was to save the lives of others.

“Him being a team leader, he put them first,” one heartbroken resident said. “He’s a hero.”

Many said the sad day will remind them to be thankful for the first responders who risk their lives.

Menard who has served on the Worcester Fire Department since 2010, leaves behind a wife and three children. They had planned to head to Disney on Wednesday morning, according to Michael Papagni, president of the Worcester Firefighters Local 109.

“We must always be eternally grateful for their service and their sacrifice,” Baker said.

The city of Worcester has set up a memorial fund in Menard’s honor. They will be releasing details shortly for those who wish to donate.

 

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