Gordon Grand Pre still vividly recalls his first days as a firefighter in Chicago during the 1950s. When he arrived at a burning three-story building, people were leaping from windows to escape the flames. At first, he was frozen in place, 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 has trouble remembering things, but that moment remains crystal clear in his mind. He still feels the rush of those early days on the job.

Grand Pre lives at Arden Courts Memory Care Community in South Holland, where he experiences occasional memory lapses. But when it comes to his time as a firefighter, the memories are as sharp as ever.

Recently, the South Holland Fire Department visited him for a special "Hearts Desire" event. Even though these firefighters weren’t from his time, their presence brought back powerful memories of his 35 years on the job.

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

When the firefighters arrived, they greeted Grand Pre warmly and took him for a ride in the firetruck around the neighborhood. His family watched, smiling and clapping, clearly touched by the gesture.

South Holland Fire Chief Brian Kolosh expressed his joy at being able to make Grand Pre’s day special. “Once you’re in the fire service, you’re always part of the fire family,” he said. “We do whatever we can to make moments like this unforgettable for our veterans.”

For Grand Pre, the visit was more than just a nostalgic trip—it was a reminder of the courage, camaraderie, and purpose that defined his career. And for the community, it was a touching tribute to one of its own.

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