The Champaign Fire Department will be holding a memorial ceremony on Thursday March 5, 2015 to honor the memory of Firefighter Edward M. Hoffman. The ceremony will be held at Champaign Station 1, 307 S. Randolph, at 7:30 a.m.
On the morning of March 4, 1960, Champaign firefighters responded to 722 S. New Street for a report of a working fire. Firefighter Hoffman was a part of that response on Engine 2. While fighting the fire, Firefighter Hoffman was overcome by smoke and flames. He was transported to Burnham City Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries on March 5th at 5:25 p.m.
Champaign Fire Chief Gary Ludwig stated, “It is important every year we remember the ultimate sacrifice Firefighter Hoffman made to the City of Champaign. It is a true measure of his devotion. One of my goals as Fire Chief is to ensure every Champaign firefighter goes home at the end of their shift.”
Contact: John Koller, Fire Marshal
Phone: (217) 403-7210