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Video: Thousands gather to honor fallen West, Texas, responders

Firefighters from across the country attended the event, along with President Obama and the First Lady

The Associated Press

WACO, Texas — Firefighters and first responders from all over Texas have gathered in Waco to honor those who died in last week’s fertilizer plant explosion in West.

Video messages from family members were played Thursday during a memorial service in Waco, about 90 miles south of Dallas. President Barack Obama, Texas Gov. Rick Perry and thousands of attendees watched relatives of the 10 first responders and two honorary first responders speak about their loved ones.

Perry called the 12 men honored at the memorial service ordinary individuals blessed with extraordinary courage.”

At least 14 people died in the April 17 explosion at West Fertilizer.

Family members were escorted into the ceremony on the Baylor University campus. In front were 12 flag-draped caskets. Large photographs were placed in front of each.

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