WORCESTER, Mass. -- Dec. 3, 1999, is a day etched into the minds of many throughout Worcester and its surrounding communities. The memory of the 'Worcester 6' is far from faded, now 25 years after the deadly fire claimed the lives of six firefighters. It's an emotional day for many, but the message always remains the same: never forget.

It's known as the building from hell and it's impact is immeasurable.

"Worcester holds a big place in our heart in New York City just because of the loss that they suffered on Dec. 3," said David Morkal, a member of the Leary Firefighters Foundation.

As a firefighter with the FDNY, Morkal remembers Dec. 3, 1999, clearly. The fire claimed the lives of Paul Brotherton, Timothy Jackson, Jeremiah Lucey, James Lyons, Joseph McGuirk and Thomas Spencer, the men known as the 'Worcester 6.'

"With nine years on the job at the time, it was pretty moving," Morkal said. "Pretty powerful for us to even experience that kind of loss."

The Leary Firefighters Foundation was founded the year after the deadly fire by actor and Worcester-native Denis Leary, who's cousin and childhood friend were two of the 'Worcester 6.' The foundation funds equipment, vehicles, education, training and technology for firefighters nationwide.

Morkal says the foundation is just another example of how deep the firefighting brotherhood goes.

"Its bonds, its strengths and its community grow because of the experiences that we've had, the tragedies that we've experienced," said Morkal.

A bond on full display this week at Union Station, where a pop-up exhibit has hundreds of artifacts and mementos collected in the aftermath of Dec. 3.

It's being run in part by former Worcester firefighters, who first-hand watched the community and world wrap its arms around them.

"Guys and girls would come put a t-shirt on the fence, a flag, a card, a patch, a helmet, all kinds of stuff was left on the fence," said retired firefighter Angelo Bongovio. "And we gathered it all. And we still have it."

A quarter-century later, those leading the department now say the day is a mix of emotions. Sadness for the brothers lost. Appreciation for the community support. Gratitude for the 'Worcester 6' who gave it all.

"It's hard to say Worcester and not say, 'Worcester 6' at the same time," said Local 1009 president Will Mosley. "We never forget the sacrifice these members made."