Miner Charitable Foundation hosts event

An impressive-looking, granite monument now stands in the Crescent City park recognizing past and present first-responders from Iroquois County.

An appreciative audience gathered Saturday for what may become an annual event to recognize and remember the past, present and future first responders who serve Iroquois County. Included are county and municipal police, Illinois State Police, Firefighters, EMT's, Coroners, Department of Natural Resource officers, and Emergency Management.

Retired Iroquois County Sheriff Sgt. Robert Flesher read off a list of "End of Watch' officials who have given their lives in the line of duty over the years.

Among the more recent honorees include: Wellington-Greer Firefighter John Jeffers in 2009, Sheldon Firefighter Joseph Zumwalt in 2007, and Ashkum Firefighter / EMT Dana Schoolman in 1988.

Dana Schoolman's widow, Ann Schoolman, was among those who appreciates what this Miner Charitable Foundation is all about.

Mrs. Schoolman was joined by her daughter and three grandchildren.

Mike Miner, son of the last harold and Jean Miner, said the Miner Charitable Foundation had been in the works for a  while.  he said his parents had quite an interest in public service and safety. 

The First-Responder memorial pays tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty. Included are police and firefighters, EMT's, coroners, emergency management, state police, dispatchers, and also conservation police.

94.1 WGFA