Uncle: Martyr Jassim, unique example of bravery

"The Martyr was a unique example of bravery, heroism, dedication, loyalty and love to his country."
This is how a relative commented on the tragic death of a firefighter while saving others after a blaze erupted in the Emirates Airlines flight EK521 at the Dubai International Airport on Wednesday morning. 
Mohammed Ibrahim, uncle of Jassim Eissa Mohammed Hassan Al Balochi, late on Wednesday told Khaleej Times that his 27-year-old nephew is the eldest of his seven-member family.
"The martyr, based in Al Khiran area of the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, is the eldest of his three brothers and two sisters."
An Emirates airline flight from India to Dubai crash-landed at Dubai's main airport Wednesday, and all 300 people onboard survived, said Shaikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive officer of Emirates airline and group.
Ten people were hospitalized after the incident whereas the 282 passengers and 18 crew members were safe and accounted for after the accident.
According to the Emirates, the crash-landing occurred at 12:45pm local time as Flight EK521 was arriving from the southern Indian city of Thiruvananthapuram.
Al Balochi's family, though devastated of losing their beloved member, are all so proud of his bravery and sacrifice. "He willingly insisted on sacrificing his life to save others."
The distraught uncle, in tears, said the martyr was not only his nephew. "He was my best brother, my best friend, and my best son. I do lose him so much, and so does each and every family member, friend, and neighbour."          
Noting, he said the martyr has not yet married. "He dedicated his life to this type of risky job, and is well-known for his commitment and courage."
Al Balochi is known for his readiness to support and assist whoever in need for help, Ibrahim underlined. "His parents, who are alive, are shocked, but cry of pride that their son sacrificed his life to save others."
The Dubai Airports authorities have affirmed that Al Balochi succumbed to fatal injuries he received while fighting fire and during the evacuation operations.
"We are all set to help the family and relatives of the heroic martyr who sacrificed his life while saving others.
Ismael Al Balochi, cousin of the martyr, told Khaleej times that Jassim was not only a relative but a true friend to him. "If you knew him, you would not be astonished of his exceptional sacrifice."
Even on daily matters, the martyr was known for his kind heart, white hands, honesty, truthfulness, seriousness and even sense of humour, he added.
"I did lose him, but I am happy and proud of his sacrifice to rescue the life of others, and will never ever forget him. I can only say: To Allah we belong, and to Him is our return."
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com