The Courier-News recently published an article about how Elgin is honoring the memory of two fallen firefighters. It’s a poignant reminder of the tragic events that unfolded 40 years ago when the Elgin Fire Department lost two of its bravest members. A magnificent memorial now stands at the Kimball Street River Walk, serving as a constant reminder of the fateful day in June 1974 when Capt. Stanley Balsis, aged 45, and firefighter Michael Whalen, 25, lost their lives while attempting to rescue a young teenager from the river. On a reckless dare, the teenager ventured onto the Kimball Street Bridge dam in an inflatable raft and ended up trapped in the turbulent waters below. When the rescue boat carrying Balsis and Whalen struck a concrete barrier and overturned, both men valiantly fought against the relentless current. Despite their heroic efforts, the force of nature proved too overwhelming, and tragically, they succumbed to the river's power. Miraculously, the teenager managed to escape and survived the ordeal. To mark the 40th anniversary of this heartbreaking incident, the Balsis family commemorated their beloved father by casting a wreath into the river. This act of remembrance was a touching tribute to a man whose legacy continues to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. Christopher McMillan, a grandson born long after Balsis passed, has been moved by the stories shared by local residents who vividly remember the tragedy. Each of Balsis' four children—Brad, Linda, Curt, and Sharon—keeps his memory alive by proudly showcasing his firefighting memorabilia and photographs in their homes. They are not alone in their grief. Patrick Crawford, a 27-year-old paramedic-in-training at the time, was one of the first responders on the scene. Reflecting on that day, Crawford recalls every detail, from start to finish. Eventually, he left the field five years later to focus full-time on his business, Elgin Medi-Transport Inc. Echoes of Tragedy Larry Judkins, a retired firefighter, remains deeply affected by the memory of Balsis and Whalen struggling in the river. At 68, he often wonders if there was anything else he could have done that day, though he knows the outcome would have remained unchanged. “The river is a formidable adversary if you don’t treat it with respect,†he reflects. The memorial itself is a stunning tribute, flanked by stone columns adorned with bronze fire helmets. It features headshots of Balsis and Whalen in their official uniforms, along with an inscription detailing their final, selfless act. This monument stands as a daily testament to the ultimate sacrifices made by these two brave individuals in the line of duty. Thanks, Dan! Scrap Steel Pipe Flattening And Shearing Machine Scrap Steel Pipe Flattening And Shearing Machine,Metal Shear Jiangyin Hangli Technology Co., Ltd. , https://www.hanglimachinery.com