Our condolences to the Heminger family, the Woilatewicz family, and the Wood River Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department of Nebraska. Captain Robert Heminger, 39, a 20 year veteran of the Wood River Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department died Sunday February 15, 2004. Captain Kenny Woilatewicz, 38, also a veteran of the Wood River Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department died Tuesday February 17, 2004. Robert and Kenny were first on scene and performing search and rescue for a trapped elderly woman at an early morning single family structure fire on Saturday February 14, 2004. Both firefighters were trapped when the roof of the room they were searching collapsed. They were rescued by a Wood River RIT team and rushed to Saint Francis Medical Center where they were listed in critical condition. Robert died early the next morning and Kenny died the following afternoon. The trapped occupant, Anna Carrig, 73, was pronounced dead at the scene.

     For more news, information, and photos, please visit the Robert Heminger and Kenny Woilatewicz Memorial in the Fallen Brothers Section.