I am saddened to learn of the passing of Andrew Cross, the volunteer firefighter who lost his life while responding to the fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont yesterday. My heart goes out to his family, his friends, and the Morrill Volunteer Fire Department, where he served. A member of my staff knew Andrew for many years and played soccer with him from the time they were young. He said that everyone knew Andrew as a kindhearted, hardworking Maine man who loved his family, his dogs, and the people of his community. He was the kind of person who could always be seen with a smile on his face, and his loss is being felt deeply. Andrew’s life is a shining example of the courage, bravery, and selfless love of others that can be found in every town and city across our great state. Our first responders give more than we could ever repay to help keep us and our loved ones safe, and it is incumbent on us to honor their sacrifices. May Andrew’s memory be a blessing.