ROCKFORD, IL — A Harlem-Roscoe Fire Department firefighter died while on duty June 1, the department announced on social media.
Although the firefighter died while at work it was apparently not while responding to an emergency.
“Today, our department has suffered an unimaginable loss. His commitment to serving the residents of our community exemplified the highest ideals of the Fire and EMS profession,” Harlem-Roscoe posted on its Facebook page.
“Every day, firefighters and paramedics willingly place themselves in harm’s way to respond to emergencies, provide lifesaving care, and stand ready whenever their community calls. Today, we are reminded of the extraordinary courage, selflessness, and dedication required to fulfill that mission. Our member embodied those values throughout his career and he leaves behind a legacy of service that will never be forgotten.”
A large procession of first responders escorted the firefighter to the Winnebago County Coroner’s Office.
The identity of the firefighter and other details were being withheld pending family notification. Details regarding memorial services, funeral arrangements and opportunities for the public to pay their respects will be shared as they become available, the post said.
“As we grieve this tremendous loss, we ask our community to keep the family and friends of our fallen firefighter/paramedic, along with his brothers and sisters of the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Department, in your thoughts and prayers,” the post read. “Rest easy, brother. We have the watch from here.”
Jeff Kolkey writes about government, economic development and other issues for the Rockford Register Star. He can be reached via email at jkolkey@rrstar.com and on X @jeffkolkey.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Rockford area mourns death of firefighter, ‘unimaginable loss’
Reporting by Jeff Kolkey, Rockford Register Star / Rockford Register Star
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