I recently came across some fascinating updates about the Stone Park Fire Department, which is part of MABAS Division 20. They’ve just added another photo gallery showcasing their apparatus history, stretching all the way back to 1954. Their fleet boasts a rich mix of classic models like the Darley and E-ONE rigs, along with a standout custom Pirsch. It’s always exciting to see how fire departments evolve over time while maintaining their unique character.
One of their current engines is actually an emergency replacement for a 2002 HME/Darley rig that got severely damaged in a tragic accident on April 27, 2004. This incident involved two responding engines—one from Stone Park and one from Northlake. The collision was devastating, resulting in the untimely death of Jeffrey Bergstrom, who served as a part-time firefighter for Stone Park and also worked as a paramedic for the Chicago Fire Department’s Ambulance Company 44. His colleagues from both departments, along with firefighters nationwide, honored him during a solemn funeral procession through several Chicago suburbs and a moving memorial service held in Hillside, Illinois. The Illinois Fire Service Institute Firefighter Record has documented this tragedy, including harrowing scene photos, which provide a poignant reminder of the risks firefighters take every day.
In fact, there’s even a striking image in their latest gallery of the destroyed 2002 HME/Darley engine (identified as STONE_PARK_E911), serving as a stark testament to the dangers faced by these brave men and women. Despite such heartbreak, it’s inspiring to see how communities rally together in times of loss, honoring fallen heroes and ensuring their legacies live on.
It’s not just about the hardware; it’s about the people behind it all—the dedication, sacrifice, and resilience that define departments like Stone Park. Whether it’s their vintage beauties or modern-day workhorses, each piece tells a story. And stories like Jeff Bergstrom’s remind us why firefighting remains one of the most honorable professions out there.
Changzhou Golden Oak Rubber Plastic Polymer Co.,Ltd , https://www.czjnsatee.com