CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The Chicago Fire Department had a badge retirement ceremony on Thursday honoring Jermaine Pelt, a firefighter-EMT who died in the line of duty one year ago.
Members of the fire department stood at attention at the fire academy as the bell signaled 3-3-5, meaning "returning home."
A department chaplain, Rabbi Moshe Wolfe, led them reciting the Firefighter's Prayer. Mayor Brandon Johnson has a family connection to the Pelt family.
"Firefighter Jermaine Pelt answered the call to serve and protect our city, knowing the risks and difficulties," Johnson said.
Members of the Pelt family looked on as his badge was placed on the Wall of Fallen Heroes.
Fire Commissioner Annette Nance Holt said his death was "a profound loss."
Pelt was also a nurse and was known for his firehouse cooking.
He died while fighting a fire in the West Pullman neighborhood. Pelt was on the end of a hose line. Everyone was ordered out, but he didn't make it. Although Pelt was found quickly, he later died of the effects of smoke inhalation.
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