Munster officials broke ground Tuesday on an area in Community Park that pays tribute to the bravery and dedication of firefighters.
The 2,500-square-foot area, known as Firefighters Tribute Park, inside Community Park will feature a circular paver-brick area around an emblem paying tribute to firefighters past, present and future, with names of donors printed on the decorative bricks.
Munster Deputy Fire Chief David Strbjak, who led the fundraising effort over the past 10 years, said the park was originally conceived as a memorial to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and is expected to be completed by its 15th anniversary. The concept since evolved as a way to honor all who have served as firefighters.
“I see this as a place for you can see old friends and take in the Fireman’s Prayer,” Strbjak said. “We want people to know that the hard work and dedication of firefighters everywhere does not go unnoticed.”
A collaborative effort between the Munster Volunteer Fire Department, Munster Firefighters Association and the town’s Parks & Recreation Department, the fundraising effort recently heated up to cover the approximately $150,000 cost.
The project got a boost when Tonn & Blank Construction Co. came on board to donate a portion of the labor to build the park. Another $20,000 is needed to install a drinking fountain at the site.
The area, at the northeast corner of Fisher Street and Calumet Avenue, will also feature the bronze statue of “Fireman Ralph,” which will be moved from Munster Fire Station No. 2.
“This is going to be a fantastic tribute to firefighters today, yesterday and into the future,” Munster Fire Chief Dave Pelc said.
Jim Masters is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
To help
Anyone wishing to donate to fund the park’s construction fund can email Strbjak at [email protected] or contact him at 219-902-9474.