On January 28, 1961, at 6:30 a.m., the Chicago Fire Department was called to a massive fire at a seven-story warehouse located on 614 W. Hubbard Street. The building was already engulfed in flames when they arrived, and within just 20 minutes, the emergency response escalated to a 5-11 status. This meant that over 300 firefighters, along with 67 pieces of equipment and two river-pumping fireboats, were deployed to tackle the inferno.
Battalion Chief George Kuhn played a crucial role during this operation. He coordinated efforts by leading a team of firefighters onto the roof of an adjacent two-story building to set up a hose line aimed directly into the burning warehouse. Tragedy struck without any warning when the wall of the adjoining warehouse unexpectedly collapsed onto the smaller structure, trapping Chief Kuhn and his crew beneath the debris. In their desperate attempt to save their colleagues, other firefighters rushed to the scene only to find themselves caught in another catastrophe as the roof of the smaller building gave way, burying both the initial victims and those trying to rescue them.
In total, nine brave firefighters lost their lives that day, among them two battalion chiefs who had dedicated their careers to protecting others.
- Battalion Chief George Rees, Engine 40, Battalion 1
- Battalion Chief George Kuhn, Engine 19, Battalion 5
- Lieutenant Charles Rauch, Engine 114
- Lieutenant Louis Repkin, Truck 19
- Firefighter Hillard S. Augustine, Squad 10
- Firefighter William Hillistad, Engine 44
- Firefighter Stanley Sliwinski, Engine 26
- Firefighter Ciro Zuccarello, Engine 26
- Firefighter Robert Burns, Squad 2
These individuals paid the ultimate price while serving their community, embodying courage and selflessness under unimaginable circumstances.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dan for sharing this story with me; it’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our first responders every single day. If you'd like to see some images capturing moments from this tragic event, click the link provided—it features photos courtesy of the Fire Museum of Greater Chicago. Their collection offers a glimpse into history, honoring not only these fallen heroes but also the legacy of firefighting across generations.
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As I reflect on this incident, it strengthens my resolve to honor such dedication through advocacy and support for current emergency services personnel. Let us never forget the risks they take or the impact they have on keeping our communities safe.
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