Today marks a tragic anniversary for the Lowcountry.
   
Nine city of Charleston heroes lost their lives two years ago June 18th battling a massive fire at the Sofa Super Store in West Ashley.
   
The fire started at about 7 o’clock in the evening as some trash started burning at the back of the building, but the flames quickly spread through the store.
   
Firefighters frantically tried to get hoses and manpower to the scene fighting to keep the flames away from several nearby homes and gas stations.
 
Three fire men went in the front door, another six entered the rear.
   
One store employee made it out on his own, while crews rescued another.
   
Soon after, intense heat caused the roof to collapse killing those nine still left inside.

The city of Charleston is holding a solemn service tonight to remember the men who lost their lives on June 18, 2007….including Melvin Champaign, Louis Mulkey, Mike Benke, Billy Hutchinson, Michael French, Brandon Thompson, Mark Kelsey, Brad Baity and Earl Drayton.

The site of the fire will be open for people to pay their respects.
   
Firefighters and families of the fallen nine will go in first for a private session between 6 and 7 pm.
   
The public will be allowed on the grounds from 7 until 10 pm.

Chief Thomas Carr will read the names of the fallen as a fire bell rings in their honor.