Awards & Tributes

John & Joel at the Milwaukee Firefighters Union Hall, receiving their awards.

Our sculpture, Courage and Faith, was given to  honor the heroic efforts of Milwaukee Firefighters, Joel and John Rechlitz, at an event on November 7th, 2009. On July 19th both of the off duty firefighters displayed a noble act by rescuing a four-year old boy as he was trapped in a burning vehicle.

The statue created by artist Ron Head is an impressive piece of artwork that honors the noble profession of firefighters who are often in harms way and risk their lives for others.

With contributions from Local 215 Milwaukee Professional Firefighters Association, and the community, a magnificent piece of art was installed as a lasting tribute for the brothers John and Joel Rechlitz’ bravery and the true spirit of a firefighter on or off duty.  Each year a new name of honor may be added to the plaque displayed with the  statue.

The idea to have the sculpture permanently installed, as an ongoing tribute at the Firefighter’s Union Hall, came to be through the diligence of retired Milwaukee Firefighter King Monaghan a member of the Courage and Faith project team. Please contact King  to find out how you could establish a similar award and display at your fire department, union hall or other location.