SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Mike Halpin attended the Illinois Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service Tuesday and met several decorated firefighters from Western Illinois.

“It was an honor to pay tribute to firefighters who sacrifice themselves protecting our communities,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “While we honor their memory, we must also honor and continue to support our front line men and women whose careers as firefighters are dedicated to making us safer. When it comes to fire safety in Western Illinois, we’re in good hands.”

The memorial took place at the firefighter memorial statue in front of the Illinois Capitol. The bronze statue is a depiction of several firefighters in action, saving a child. The statue is surrounded by 2,400 red bricks engraved with the names of contributors.

Several firefighters received the Firefighter Excellence Award for an act of service in the line of duty. Those from Western Illinois included Captain Justin Moffitt and firefighter Tyler Brackett both of the Galesburg Fire Department.

In addition, five units received the Firefighter Excellence "Unit Citation" Awards for an act of service in the line of duty, demonstrating excellence, teamwork, and professionalism in service to Illinois residents. The recipients from Galesburg included firefighters Kyle Harms, Kyle McGee and Josh Webber.

Read more about the memorial and service here.