The Wichita Fire Department on Monday will honor firefighters who perished in the 1968 Yingling Chevrolet building fire with a memorial plaque near the site of the fire. The late firefighters will be recognized during a ceremony scheduled for 10 a.m. at 310 S. Topeka. A reception will follow the event, which is open to the public.
“We are very humbled to recognize these men and to acknowledge the sacrifice of their families on behalf of our community,” Fire Chief Ronald D. Blackwell said.
On Nov. 21, 1968, four Wichita firefighters lost their lives at the Yingling Chevrolet building fire located at 300 S. Topeka. During the fire, the roof collapsed; Fire Chief Thomas A. McGaughey, Chief Inspector Merle O. Wells, Firefighter Dale J. Mishler and Firefighter Jimmy L. Austin were trapped under burning debris and twisted steel.
Professional Engineers Consultants donated space for the memorial plaque; company officials will attend the event.
