The city of St. Charles Fire Department will hold a monument dedication Saturday that memorializes previous members of the department.

The dedication ceremony takes place at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 9, 2016, at Volunteer Plaza, 112 N. Riverside Ave.

The monument was moved from its original home in Baker Park to Volunteer Plaza, the redeveloped green space across from Fire Station 1, 112 N. Riverside Avenue.

“Moving the monument closer to the Fire Department and city buildings made sense,” said Fire Chief Joe Schelstreet. “The benches, lighting and flagpole make it an ideal spot for ceremonial assemblies. We appreciate the Park District being a good custodian of the monument for many years.”

The monument, which has the Firefighter’s Prayer inscribed on the back, had been in Baker Park since 1972.

SOURCE: St. Charles Fire Department

The Firefigher’s Prayer

When I’m called to duty god
wherever flames may rage
give me strength to save a life
whatever be its age

Help me to embrace a little child
before it is too late
or save an older person from
the horror of that fate

Enable me to be alert
to hear the weakest shout
and quickly and efficiently
to put the fire out

I want to fill my calling and
to give the best in me
to guard my neighbor and
protect his property

And if according to your will
I have to lose my life
bless with your protecting hand
my children and my wife

SOURCE: www.pffm.org