Chicago firefighter Jermaine Pelt remembered 1 year after death in line of duty

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Thursday marks one year since Chicago firefighter Jermaine Pelt died in the line of duty.

On Thursday morning, his family and Chicago firefighters added his badge to the memorial wall at the Quinn Fire Academy to honor him, officially retiring his badge number, 1158.

The ceremony honored his sacrifice and shared the city's profound gratitude.

"We mourn the loss of a son, a father, a colleague, a friend, a nurse, a cook, a loved one, a loss that is deeply felt by our entire firefighting family and the community we serve," CFD Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt said. "He answered the call of duty without hesitation, knowing the risk he faced. Firefighter Pelt stood tall in the face of adversity, embodying the true spirit of heroism."

That spirit was also remembered at Pelt's funeral service last year.

There was also a brick dedication at the firefighter memorial park.

SEE MORE: Chicago Fire Department says final goodbye at funeral for fallen firefighter Jermaine Pelt

"His 18 years with the fire department left a positive impact on our community and our entire city, and I'm grateful for that," Mayor Brandon Johnson said.

Pelt died from smoke inhalation while battling a house fire in West Pullman.

He left behind two children.

"We now vow to carry forward the legacy of our fallen member, to honor Jermaine's memories through our continued commitment to service, sacrifice and excellence," Nance-Holt said.

It was also mentioned at the ceremony Thursday that the entire city is encouraged to honor firefighter Pelt, by making the most of today, as tomorrow is not guaranteed.