Natick Firefighter Loses Battle with Cancer

Joseph T. Slattery, a member of IAFF Local Firefighters 1707 with the Natick Fire Department, lost his battle with Sarcoma on Sunday, according to the union's website.

Slattery will receive a full Line of Duty ceremony as family, friends and other firefighters say goodbye and honor his life.

The calling hours will be on Friday, February 1 at John Everett & Sons Funeral Home from 3-7 p.m.

The funeral mass will be at St. Patrick's Church on Saturday at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Patrick's Cemetery.

The Firefighter's Prayer

When I'm called to duty God
wherever flames may rage
give me strength to save a life
whatever be its age

Help me to embrace a little child
before it is too late
or save an older person from
the horror of that fate

Enable me to be alert
to hear the weakest shout
and quickly and efficiently
to put the fire out

I want to fill my calling and
to give the best in me
to guard my neighbor and
protect his property

And if according to your will
I have to lose my life
bless with your protecting hand
my children and my wife.

-Anonymous