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Effort To Surprise Son Of Fallen Philadelphia Firefighter With Patches Heard Around The World

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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Two weeks ago we met 10-year-old Evan Potter inside his Bridesburg home

He lost his firefighter father, Michael Potter, suddenly in 2016. His Christmas wish this year was to start a collection of fire company patches like his dad had done.

Unknown to Evan, Philadelphia's Engine 33 was already on the job. In fact, Fireman Charles Sgrillo was the one who called CBS3.

"I knew this was going to happen because this is how firemen are," said Sgrillo.

Fire Company Asking For Patches To Surprise Son Of Fallen Philadelphia Firefighter

 

That original story first aired on Nov. 27 and since that plea for patches was made thousands have responded.

"He says he wanted a couple patches I mean like I said this is one bin and there is a whole other bin there full another bin in there," said Sgrillo.

Thousands of patches for Evan have poured in to Engine 33. From towns and cities in every single U.S. state and from countries including Germany, Ireland, France, even Tasmania.

"He's an honorary firefighter in Massachusetts's now!" said Sgrillo.

And hear this, Evan's mom says he hasn't seen the news. His friends have been directed not to say a word and Evan has no clue about this massive response.

"Everyone as you can see just opened up their hearts and took this little guy under their wing," said Sgrillo.

The patches and gifts will be delivered to Evan on a fire truck on Christmas Eve.

 

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