Pingree Grove Fire Protection District honored for saving deputy’s life

On Oct. 23, 2023, a routine call turned into a lifesaving mission for the Pingree Grove and Countryside Fire Protection District.

Responding to a head-on collision on Route 47, the team found Kane County Sheriff Deputy Brian Anderson critically injured and in desperate need of immediate assistance. Thanks to their swift and skilled response, Anderson’s life was saved.

In recognition of their extraordinary bravery and dedication, the Fox Valley Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution awarded members of the Pingree Grove and Countryside Fire Protection District the esteemed SAR Life Saving Medal.

The presentation of the awards took place at the annual Pingree Grove and Countryside Awards banquet on May 31, where the heroic efforts of the first responders were celebrated. Receiving the SAR Life Saving Medal were firefighters Robert Andre, RJ Bartlett, Anthony Carlini, Preston Childers, Kathleen Cwik, John Eiermann, Chris Howell, Eric Rissman, and Robert Wangles.

Deputy Brian Anderson, accompanied by his wife Michelle, attended the awards ceremony to personally thank the members of the Pingree Grove and Countryside Fire Protection District, Hampshire Fire Protection District, and the crew from LifeNet.

These teams worked together seamlessly to extricate Deputy Anderson from the wreckage and transport him to the hospital, ensuring he received the critical care needed to save his life.

The significance of the event was marked by heartfelt gratitude and admiration. Matt Clark, president of the Fox Valley SAR, highlighted the bravery and dedication of the first responders in his remarks.

“The courage and professionalism displayed by the members of the Pingree Grove and Countryside Fire Protection District, along with their colleagues from Hampshire and LifeNet, are truly commendable. Their actions on that day exemplify the highest standards of service and sacrifice. It is an honor to present them with the SAR Life Saving Medal, recognizing their unwavering commitment to saving lives.”

The ceremony not only honored the heroic actions of the first responders but also underscored the vital role that fire protection districts and emergency services play in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.

The collaborative efforts of the Pingree Grove and Countryside Fire Protection District, Hampshire Fire Protection District, and LifeNet crew serve as a testament to the power of teamwork and dedication in the face of life-threatening situations.

As the community reflects on this lifesaving event, the recognition bestowed upon these brave individuals serves as a reminder of the extraordinary courage and selflessness that define the spirit of our first responders. The SAR Life Saving Medal stands as a symbol of gratitude and honor for those who go above and beyond to protect and save lives.

The Sons of the American Revolution is a patriotic organization dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the American Revolution. Established in 1889, the SAR honors the memory of those who fought for American independence by promoting historical research, education, and patriotism. The Fox Valley Chapter of the SAR, serving the Fox Valley region, is an active branch committed to upholding the values of the national organization. The chapter participates in local historical commemorations, school presentations, and community events, and honoring local individuals or organizations within the Fox Valley area.

To find out more about the SAR, visit www.foxsar.org or facebook.com/sonsoftheamericanrevolutionfoxvalley/.