VIDEO: Firefighters and EMS workers are used to hearing the alarm bells ring in their stations, alerting them to a new emergency. The bell they will never be used to hearing is the one at the memorial that was held.
A solemn annual gathering took place Saturday at Ben Hansen Park in Wisconsin Rapids. The memorial service that was held was made necessary by those who gave their lives protecting their communities. Firefighters and EMS workers from around the state gathered alongside families of fallen public servants to honor the sacrifices they made in the line of duty.
Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Matt Zacher read a proclamation made by Governor Tony Evers at the service, which hopes to give remembrance to all who have passed while serving the people. “I, Tony Evers, Governor of the State of Wisconsin,” Mayor Zacher quoted, “Do hereby proclaim October 11, 2025, as Wisconsin Firefighters’ Memorial Day, throughout the state of Wisconsin, and I commend this observance to all our state’s residents.” The memorial is not only about honoring the fallen heroes. Central Fire and EMS District Chief Joseph Miller says the service helps their families, too.
