CFD Honors Memory of Firefighter on 1-Year Anniversary of His Death
A Solemn Ceremony at the Chicago Fire Academy
There were heavy hearts at the Chicago Fire Department as loved ones and fellow firefighters remembered Drew Price on the one-year anniversary of his death. Andrew “Drew” Price, 39, died doing what he loved – fighting fires and protecting others.
A Life of Service and Gratitude
“Gratitude, humility, appreciation. Those were the values that anchored him,” said Lara Price, Drew Price’s widow. CFD Capt. Pat Gallagher added, “We tried our best to make sure Drew’s memory will never be forgotten.”
A Tragic Accident
On November 13, 2023, Price fell through a light shaft of a four-story building while fighting a 2-11 box alarm fire. The funeral that followed and the outpouring of emotion showed a tangible sign of how many people admired and respected the fallen firefighter.
A Ceremony to Honor His Memory
A solemn ceremony was held at the Chicago Fire Academy, where Price’s badge was placed on Chicago’s Wall of Fallen Heroes. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also paid tribute to Price, saying, “I also pray that today is a source of comfort and support for the Price family and all those who loved Drew.”
An Honorary Bronze Statue
The day of remembrance ended at Halsted and Diversey Parkway, with an honorary bronze statue unveiled at the Lincoln Park firehouse where Price served. The statue depicted a jacket draped over a surfboard, reflecting Price’s passion for surfing.
A Life of Surfing and Gratitude
For Price, surfing wasn’t just about catching a wave. It was about living in the here and now, finding beauty in life’s rhythm, its ups and downs, riding whatever waves that life brought. On a surfing trip to Hawaii, Price discovered the meaning behind “mahalo” – the Hawaiian word for gratitude – and made it his own personal catchphrase.
A Year After His Death
A year after his death serving the City of Chicago, Price’s family, friends, and co-workers greeted each other, honored his memory, and bid him farewell through that one word – “Mahalo, Drew.”
Conclusion
The Chicago Fire Department honored the memory of firefighter Drew Price on the one-year anniversary of his death, remembering his life of service, gratitude, and passion for surfing. His family, friends, and co-workers continue to honor his memory through the values he embodied.
FAQs
* When did firefighter Drew Price die?
+ November 13, 2023
* What was Price’s age at the time of his death?
+ 39
* What was Price’s passion in life?
+ Surfing
