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On a brisk October morning, over 150 firefighters, families, and friends turned out to view the dedication of the newly finished Green Bay Fire Fighter Tribute located on the banks of the Fox River in downtown Green Bay. After 18 months of planning and fundraising the granite and brick tribute was formally dedicated on Saturday morning, October 25th when Lieutenant Governor Barbara Lawton spoke of the tradition, dedication, and compassion that Green Bay's fire fighters have exemplified since the 1850's. She also spoke of her long relationship with the fire fighters and their committment to the city and its citizens. In addition to her speech, Fire Chief Jeff Roemer congratulated all those involved in the effort to bring this dream to fruition and Bill Margis, a Green Bay Fire Fighter and one of the driving forces behind the successful campaign to build the tribute, thanked all those individuals, families, friends and businesses who contributed to the success of the fundraising effort. The black granite tribute is surrounded by 350 bricks engraved with the name, rank, and dates of service that an individual served with the Green Bay Fire Department. In addition, ample space exists to allow for expansion of the tribute as current fire fighters retire or leave their service to the city and space will also allow for the inclusion of over 250 fire fighters from early Green Bay whose names are still being researched for accuracy. These names will be added as research and funding allows. Also at the tribute are 2 black granite benches that will provide a place of solitude and reflection for families and friends. Although fundraising allowed for the initial planning and construction of the tribute, funds will be needed on an annual basis to provide for maintenance, landscaping, additional bricks, and installation costs. If you would like to make a tax-deductible contribution tothe Green Bay Fire Fighter Tribute send your donation to; Green Bay Fire Fighter Tribute 1570 Elizabeth St., Green Bay, WI 54302.
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