A statue depicting three firefighters in and around a chimney stands southwest of the Capitol in Springfield. And firefighters, their families, and their supporters gathered there for the annual firefighters memorial.

No Illinois firefighters or EMT’s lost their lives in the line of duty in 2022, but that did not stop the words and salutes.

“The heroes we honor today are never forgotten,” said Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton. “And, to the members of the fire service here with us today, we see all you do to save lives, and in solemn moments like this, we are here for you, because we know you are always there for us.”

Two firefighters have already died in 2023. Their names will be read next year.