Every May, the community pauses with citizens throughout the nation to honor firefighters who made the supreme sacrifice while serving their departments.
On Thurs., May 23, a Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service was held at the Naperville Firemen’s Memorial Park where Lieutenant R. F. Rechenmacher, Engineer J.L. Herring, Fireman B. R. Petrowski and Lieutenant G. S. Winckler are remembered.
With gratitude expressed to Naperville Fire Chief Mark Puknaitis and members of the Naperville Fire Department, James Hoch Photography provided the following collection of photos that depict the NFD Color Guard, Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville bagpipers and a wreath-laying ceremony.
Naperville Firemen’s Memorial Park is located 1072 W. Jefferson Avenue. Two beams of light are visible at “Ladder of Light” after dark, reminders of the daily risks taken by firefighters every day.
Note also 2024 is the 150th anniversary of the Naperville Fire Department. Until December 2024, an exhibit of its history is now on display at Naper Settlement. Watch for notices of special celebratory events throughout the summer.
The Naperville Fire Department also participates in Naperville Memorial Day Parade that steps off at 10:30AM Mon., May 27, along Jackson Avenue and will follow Main Street and Benton Avenue to Central Park.
Photos by James Hoch Photography
