New CFD fire boat named after fallen firefighter Christopher Wheatley
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By Patrick Elwood, FOX 32 News at Noon Co-Anchor - bio | email
CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) -
When you're near Chicago's lakefront this summer keep an eye out for a beautiful red fire boat that is the pride of the department.
Named after a firefighter who died on the job, the Christopher Wheatley has all the bells and whistles and legacy that will last for years and years to come. Wheatley died in 2010, fighting a fire on the West Side.
The boat parked at DuSable Harbor is the CFD's first new boat since 1949. It can pump over 14,000 gallons a minute and reaches the top speed of 16 mph, while covering 28 miles of lakefront.
Dan Wheatley, Christopher's father, said he was a great kid.
"I'm proud to be his father," Wheatley said. "This whole family is proud of what he did. He loved the city of Chicago and the Chicago Fire Department."
Union President Tom Ryan said Christopher gave his all.
"He did something that most human beings won't do," Ryan said, "as they say, the last full measure of devotion. He was devoted to the citizens and the city of Chicago. He gave his all and gave his life to protect it."
On June 20, the foundation will hold the annual Christopher Wheatley Memorial Golf Outing at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club in Lemont. Visit the fundraiser's website to sign up and play.
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