Our profession is one of great danger. As firefighters we know that each call
may be our last. But, we love what we do and we know the job must be done.
Kevin knew the risk. He also knew the rewards-the feelings of serving his
community, working hand in hand with his brother firefighters, saving lives, and
making a difference. To Kevin the rewards outweighed the risks.
We face many difficult challenges in our profession and Kevin met every
challenge with great enthusiasm and tremendous devotion. From becoming an E.M.T.
and Certified Firefighter II to feverishly working to obtain his Firefighter III Certificate,
Kevin truly had a goal in his life. That goal was to become a professional firefighter.
A proud father, a loving husband, a great friend. Kevin was what all of us
should hope to be. On that Sunday night when Kevin made the ultimate sacrifice,
a part of us died with him. His family lost a loving, son, brother, husband,
and father. His firefighting family lost a true professional.
We know that we will never be able to change the events of that fateful night.
We will never be able to bring our brother back, but every time the alarm sounds,
every time we roll out the door, Kevin will be in that engine with us. His great
enthusiasm, his contagious smile, his eagerness to get to the fire, his true
professionalism will always be a part of each of us. Kevin was what every
firefighter hopes to be- a true professional.
Until we meet again, our brother will be with each one of us,
helping us to do the job that he loved so much.
-Written by Mike Steh, Fire Chief
Herrin Fire Department
Herrin, Illinois
