Hundreds of Indian-Americans paid tributes to the 'Fallen Heroes' at India House here, commemorating the bravery of four valiant firefighters who died while saving others in a massive hotel fire last week.
The Indian-Americans gathered on Tuesday to participate in a prayer meeting for 'Fallen Heroes', who lost their lives in the hotel fire on Friday, described as deadliest day in the Houston Fire Department's 118-year history.
Indian-Americans appealed the community to keep the affected families in their thoughts and prayers.
"At this time of tragedy and human suffering, the Indian American community is coming together to help the victims' families," the organisers said.
Major participating organisations include India Culture Centre, India House, Hindus of Greater Houston, Indo-American Chamber of Commerce,Indo-American Charity Foundation, Sewa International, Indo-American Political Action Committee.
Meanwhile, thousands attended a tearful farewell to the four fallen fire fighters Wednesday.
"It's a painful day," Texas Governor Rick Perry said.
"It's also a necessary day. And it's our duty to honour these four individuals who sacrificed everything in the service of their community." he said.
"Flames don't discriminate. It doesn't matter if it's a seasoned veteran or a fresh graduate of the academy," the Governor said.
Mayor Annise Parker, among public officials speaking Wednesday, added brush strokes to the verbal portraits.
She called the victims by their nicknames and shared their endearing characteristics.
Bebee, for one, never could pass up a stray dog, Parker said.
To the dead firefighters' families, the Mayor said, in a voice taut with emotion, "They lived as a family at (Stations) 68 and 51. They died together as a family. Now you are, and will forever be, a part of our family."
"Investigators at the scene of the blaze have said they are focusing on an attic and the kitchen area of an Indian restaurant Bhojan connected to the motel.
They don't expect the findings of their investigation to be announced for months.
The families of the dead firefighters will hold private funerals today and tomorrow.
