Chicago firefighters who died in line of duty remembered on Memorial Day

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago firefighters who died in the line of duty were also remembered Monday for their service. Colleagues and families honored the public servants for their ultimate sacrifice.

The Chicago Fire Department pipes and drums led the parade, a procession that passed under an American flag before entering Holy Family Church.

The solemn service honored fallen firefighters that have passed in the last year.

Seven active duty members, 129 retired. Diane Patmon lost her husband, Walter, two years ago.

"I'm gonna be thinking about Walter cause this is the holiday and this is the time he would always barbeque and we'd just have family time. And so he's not here anymore and that always makes a little bit sad," said Patmon.

As part of the mass, there was song, prayer and scripture, and the reading of each person who died.

It's the 82nd year of the annual parade and mass. It is always on Memorial Day, and for good reason.

"Back in the old days, back let's say World War II, a lot of the firefighters wore two uniforms. They were the American Armed Forces uniform and the firefighters uniform. Serve in the fire department then go off and fight a war," said Jose Santiago, commissioner, Chicago Fire Department.

Larry Burns is a retired firefighter who served 31 years.

"Buddies you used to work with and shared camaraderie on the job with and they're diminishing each year, less and less. So it is, it's tough," said Burns.

Following the ceremony was a 21-gun salute dedicated to the firefighters and paramedics of Chicago who made the ultimate sacrifice.