Chicago park dedicated to fallen firefighters

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Excerpts from the Chicago Tribune:

On a cold Thursday morning, the memory of Firefighter/Paramedic Patrick King and Firefighter Anthony Lockhart was honored at the very location where they lost their lives in a tragic fire on February 11, 1998. The two men were killed when the roof of the Beverly Tire Store collapsed during a routine call. Today, that site is transformed into a peaceful park named in their honor, and it was here that the King Lockhart Memorial Statue was unveiled on a bitterly cold day.

King’s wife, Gina, still feels the weight of that night, which took place at 10615 S. Western Ave. “It feels like it happened just last month,” she said. “They say time heals all wounds, but I don’t believe that. I still wear a necklace with a small replica of my husband’s badge, number 1407.”

Chicago Fire Commissioner Jose Santiago reflected on the significance of the park and statue, saying, “This is a reminder that no matter how well-trained or equipped we are, things can still go wrong. This is a dangerous job, and while we do everything we can to bring everyone home safely, it doesn’t always happen. Some called this fire routine, but we know nothing is truly routine in our line of work. There are many places in this city where firefighters have made the ultimate sacrifice, but this one stands out because it has become a place of remembrance and peace.”

The park features walking paths, benches, and bronze boots placed at the exact spots where each man's body was found. It’s a quiet, solemn space that honors their bravery and sacrifice.

The statue, created by sculptor Marshall Svendsen, serves as a powerful symbol of selflessness. “It’s not about them—it’s about others,” said Rev. Thomas Mulcrone, chaplain of the Chicago Fire Department. “This statue reminds us of what firefighters and paramedics live for: serving and protecting those in need.”

Thanks, Dan

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