FF Edward Hoffman’s nieces Nancy Aders, Carolyn Corn and Judith Schriefer gather under the photo of their uncle.
Eight members of the Edward Hoffman family, current Champaign firefighters, City staff and many retired CFD personnel gathered in the basement of Fire Station One for a ceremony allowing all to learn more about the man and ultimate sacrifice that Firefighter Edward Hoffman made for the citizens of Champaign on March 4, 1960 at a morning house fire at 722 South New Street. FF Hoffman suffered severe injuries in a house fire during the early morning hours of March 4, 1960 and succumbed to his injuries at Burnham City Hospital the next day.
Retired Battalion Chief Bob Walters shared fond, as well as tough, memories of the day allowing all to visualize as well as ponder. Fire Chief Forsman discussed firefighter safety measures which have since been enacted. Mayor Don Gerard read a proclamation declaring March 5, 2013 as Edward M. Hoffman Day. Three of FF Hoffman’s nieces shared family memories of their Uncle Ed. A memorial photo was unveiled and placed in the west suppression entryway at Fire Headquarters.
