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From the City of Evanston website:
A remembrance ceremony will be held on Wednesday, July 22, at 2:00 p.m. in Firemen’s Park to honor the lives of three fallen firefighters: William Craig, George Stiles, and Marty Leoni. This year marks significant anniversaries—110 years since the deaths of William Craig and George Stiles, and 30 years since the tragic passing of Marty Leoni.
William Craig and George Stiles lost their lives during a fire at the Clayton Marks Building on December 13, 1905, at 1900 Dempster Street. Their sacrifice was part of a long history of bravery within the Evanston Fire Department. Marty Leoni, a firefighter and paramedic, gave his life on July 22, 1985, while responding to a structure fire at 1927 Jackson Avenue. The call came in about an infant trapped on the second floor, and Leoni was searching for the child when he was fatally injured. His death marked the second time that century that the department faced such a heartbreaking loss—a reality that every firefighter knows but never hopes to experience.
Fire Chief Greg Klaiber shared, “Thirty years ago, Firefighter/Paramedic Marty Leoni made the ultimate sacrifice while searching for a trapped victim. On July 22, we will come together to honor his memory, along with Firefighters Craig and Stiles, who gave everything for the people of Evanston.â€
The event is not only a tribute to these three brave individuals but also a moment to remember all firefighters and police officers who have lost their lives in service to the community.
Here’s a breakdown of the ceremony schedule:
- **Assembly of Personnel** – 2:00 p.m.
- **Presentation of Colors** – 2:10 p.m. (EFD/EPD/AFFI Honor Guard)
- **Prayer Service/Moment of Silence** – 2:15 p.m. (Chaplain David Jones)
- **Dispatch of Last Alarm** – 2:25 p.m. exactly
- **Remarks** – 2:30 p.m.
- Fire Chief Greg Klaiber
- Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl
- Captain Mike Adam (retired)
- **Tolling of the Bell Ceremony** – 2:45 p.m.
- **Stand Down of Colors** – 3:00 p.m. (EFD/EPD/AFFI Honor Guard)
- **Fellowship and Food** – 3:10 p.m.
The public is warmly invited to attend this solemn yet meaningful event. Firemen’s Park is located at the corner of Simpson Street and Maple Avenue.
For more details, you can call or text 847-448-4311. If you're in Evanston, simply dial 3-1-1 for assistance.