Events Upcoming
New Members
The Springfield Fire Department, in partnership with the Illinois Licensed Beverage Association, honored three Springfield firefighters with the prestigious Hometown Hero Award for their courageous, life-saving actions during a structure fire earlier this year.
On March 11, 2026, at approximately 1 p.m., Springfield Fire Department crews responded to a severe structure fire at a local apartment building. Engine 8 was the first company to arrive on the scene, encountering heavy smoke and advanced fire conditions.
Upon arrival, the crew spotted a victim hanging from a third-story window. Driver Engineer Devin Gilman and Firefighter Nick Saccaro immediately initiated a rescue, deploying a ladder to reach the upper-story window.
Firefighter Saccaro ascended the ladder, reached the victim, and safely brought her to the ground. The victim had sustained severe lacerations and burns to her hands and feet and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. She is expected to make a full recovery.
Driver Engineer Devin Gilman, Firefighter Pete Miller and Firefighter Nick Saccaro were individually recognized this week for their quick thinking, sound judgment and exceptional teamwork under extreme conditions.
The department also recognized Captain John Cicci for his leadership and dedication to training the award-winning crew.
“Firefighting is about making the right decision in the worst possible conditions,” said Julie Plunk, Assistant Fire Chief, during the presentation. “It is about recognizing what needs to be done, trusting your training and having the courage to act when every second matters. Their quick recognition of the situation, sound judgment, courage, teamwork, and life-saving actions are a true reflection of what it means to serve as a firefighter.”
