Gordon Grand Pre has vivid memories of his first day as a Chicago firefighter in the 1950s. When he arrived at a burning three-story building, people were jumping from windows to escape the flames. He initially froze, but another firefighter patted him on the back and said, “Keep moving, they’ll jump on you if you don’t.”

Now 93, Grand Pre sometimes struggles with his memory, but that particular moment remains crystal clear in his mind.

Grand Pre, who lives at Arden Courts Memory Care Community in South Holland, experiences occasional memory lapses, but he still recalls those early days as a firefighter like it was yesterday.

Recently, he had the chance to relive some of that excitement when the South Holland Fire Department visited him for a “Hearts Desire” event. While the firefighters were from the local department, they brought back powerful memories of his 35-year career.

His wife remembers when her husband left for a week-long firefighting assignment during the 1968 Chicago riots. She packed a care package of soup, crackers, and candy bars, which he carried in a sack tied to the end of a stick—like a hobo.

When the firefighters arrived, they greeted Grand Pre and led him to the firetruck for a ride around the neighborhood. His family stood nearby, smiling and clapping as he enjoyed the moment.

South Holland Fire Chief Brian Kolosh said he was honored to be invited to make Grand Pre’s day special. “Once you’re in the fire service, you’re always part of the fire family,” he said. “Whatever we can do as a department, we will do to make it a memorable moment for him.”

For Grand Pre, the visit wasn’t just about nostalgia—it was a reminder of the pride and purpose that defined his career. As he sat in the firetruck, watching the familiar streets pass by, he seemed transported back to the days when every call was an adventure, and every fire was a test of courage.

The experience also served as a touching reminder of how much the community values its heroes, even years after their service has ended. For many, the fire department is more than a job—it's a lifelong bond, and for Gordon Grand Pre, that bond still holds strong.

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