Kortrijk (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Firefighter Johan Kesteloot retired after 43 years with the Kortrijk fire brigade, honoured by colleagues in a guard of honour. He recalls the tragic 1984 school collapse, which deeply affected him. Kesteloot plans to volunteer in emergency services post-retirement.
This morning, on January 31, 2025, the fire department in Kortrijk honored firefighter Johan Kesteloot, who is retiring after 43 years. At 7 o’clock, his coworkers formed a line to show their respect. They mentioned that this tradition celebrates his hard work and dedication. The guard of honour recognized Kesteloot’s important contributions to the safety of the Kortrijk community.
What legacy does firefighter Johan Kesteloot leave after 43 years of service?
Authorities mentioned that ceremonies like this are common in fire departments. They honour retiring members for their years of service. They mentioned that the guard of honour for Kesteloot was a special tribute to his long career. Coworkers said that they work together in tough situations and support each other during important times.
Johan Kesteloot is retiring after 43 years with the Kortrijk Fire Brigade.
“It’s great to be welcomed like this,”
he said in an interview. Johan talked about the team spirit and the jokes they shared.
“The team spirit, yes. The jokes we make among ourselves. Just life in the barracks.”
Johan told Margaux.
Johan Kesteloot remembers a major event from his career. It was the collapse of the ‘t Fort school in Kortrijk over 40 years ago. At that time, Johan was a young volunteer firefighter. He mentioned that the accident happened on November 21, 1984. A part of the school fell and two eight-year-old children lost their lives.
Many others were affected. The collapse was due to a mistake during digging near the school. Johan said,
“The collapse of the Fort left a huge impression.”
He mentioned that for him and the other rescuers, it was a moment that changed their lives.
Johan said,
“We were called to help in Kortrijk. It was chaos, and I was not used to that. Seeing those children hurt me deeply.”
Johan is getting ready to retire and plans to take a holiday in his camper. He will still work as a volunteer in emergency services. He could not do this before while working full-time. Johan said,
“I will continue working as a volunteer. I would miss the ambulance work too much.”
Johan mentioned that he loves working in the ambulance service.
He said,
“I prefer it to being a firefighter. I worked in the ambulance for 25 years. It brings you closer to people, and you can help in life-and-death situations.”
