First Responders, Public Honor Fallen Boston Firefighter Mike Kennedy

BOSTON (CBS) - With a police escort and salutes from fellow first responders, the body of Firefighter Michael Kennedy was escorted behind his own Ladder 15, seven miles to a West Roxbury funeral home.

"It hits home, you don't think you go to work and not come home. You realize how they put their life in danger everyday," said a Boston Medical Center nurse who came out to watch the procession along Albany Street.

Crowds waved flags to honor the procession when it reached West Roxbury. It was the firefighters' way of saying he's not alone on this leg of the journey that began Wednesday when a windswept fire claimed his life.

The tragic ending touching many hearts. "They're here so quickly it's unbelievable. They're always there for us and now we need to be there for them," said another bystander.

So many in the city are doing that outside the Back Bay firehouse where Kennedy was stationed with fellow firefighter Lt. Edward Walsh who was also killed in the blaze. A procession of another kind, as well-wishers placed flowers and said prayers at an ever growing memorial. "These people risk their lives to save ours. I can't think of a worse thing than a car pulling up to give you the terrible news," said Marissa Ayala who laid flowers outside the firehouse.

Retired firefighter John Imbruglia says there's never a routine day. "That was one for the books," he says. "A storm 300 miles away affected their lives."

Memorial Fund

A Lieutenant Walsh - Firefighter Kennedy Memorial Fund has been established.

Donations will be accepted by mail by sending a check to:

Lieutenant Walsh - Firefighter Kennedy Memorial Fund
Boston Firefighters Credit Union
60 Hallet Street
Dorchester, MA 02124

Credit card donations will also be accepted on BOSFIRECU.COM

MORE LOCAL NEWS FROM CBS BOSTON