Fallen Milwaukee firefighters honored in annual ceremony

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – A ceremony was held Wednesday morning honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Milwaukee Fire Department.

At the 22^nd annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial recognition, dozens gathered to pay their respects.

Leaders from the department and Mayor Tom Barrett spoke at the event highlighting the department’s bravery and dedication.

Fire chief Mark Rohlfing focused not only on line of duty deaths, but also those who have died from the long term health effects of the job.

“Most of the firefighters whose names are on that memorial never had to face the carcinogens and the other terrible toxic chemicals that we are exposed to at every fire,” he said.

One name was added this year, bringing the memorial total to 131. Lieutenant Kristin Ciganek-Schroeder died from colon cancer late last year.

Every year, there ceremony is held during Fire Prevention Week which focuses on fire safety.