Ten Morrison firemen were on call when Prophetstown, IL, needed help, Monday, July 15, 2013. Fire Department Chief David Benters stated, “When we got to Tegeler’s [Amish Furniture, outside Morrison, IL, at 13459 Crosby Road],” he knew they would find serious damage when they arrived. The sky announced the fire several miles south on IL Route 78. “You need an interior attack if you’re going to stop” a fire with connected buildings like Prophetstown’s–and Morrison’s–Main Street.
“Four guys went with Prophetstown’s Engine 5 in the back [alley]. The others went to the [south] end of the street and sprayed with a water gun,” he recalled.
Chief Benters’ younger brother, Chief Dennis Benters of Mt. Carroll, IL, Fire Department assisted. So did their relatives: Officer Phillip Garrison of Erie, IL, Fire Department and his son, Jordan.
On Wednesday, August 7, these ten local firefighters received a token of appreciation from thecity1.com, owned by Stephanie A. Vavra. Prophetstown fire victims were the beneficiaries of a July t-shirt sale fundraiser. The back side thanked first responders, including 31 Fire Departments in Illinois and Iowa who answered the call.
Morrison photographer Steve Siefken, owner of Park Street Pictures, captured the fire with over 200 photos. He took this one under happier circumstances. Shown left-to-right with Engine #3 are Stan Emmert, Chief Dave Benters, Brian Tichler, John Bielema, Arlyn Tichler, Wes Haan, Mark Cox, Jon Heusinkveld standing on the truck, David Brandon, and Captain Randy Betts.
