SPRINGFIELD – Following the Illinois Fallen Firefighter Memorial Ceremony, Firefighter/Paramedic Kyle Haemker of the Bradley Fire Department received the prestigious Medal of Honor. 79th District State Representative Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee), who represents Bradley in the House of Representatives, echoed praises for Firefighter/Paramedic Haemker for this well-deserved award.
On December 14th, 2022, FF/PM Haemker was heading home when he noticed an accident. Stopping to assist, there was a vehicle fully submerged in water. Bystanders informed Haemker that the driver was still inside the vehicle, and he dove into the frigid water to remove the driver from the vehicle, saving this person’s life.
“It’s common to hear that heroes walk among us, but to hear of such courage and strength for one’s neighbor truly demonstrates the heroism of Firefighter Haemker,” said Rep. Haas. “He went out of his way and put himself at risk to save someone else. Selflessness, bravery, and compassion is what drove him and what drives firefighters from Kankakee to Carbondale. The 79th District is so proud of Firefighter Haemker receiving this deserved honor and to have him serve our district.”
The Medal of Honor is the highest award given by the State of Illinois to a firefighter for an act of bravery or heroism, by which the firefighter has demonstrated in great degree the characteristics of selflessness and personal courage above and beyond the call of duty, under adverse conditions, with the possibility of extreme personal risk. It is presented following the Illinois Firefighter Memorial Ceremony at the Illinois State Capitol, a bronze work of art to honor those who have made the supreme sacrifice.