Firefighters are working to raise $1.6 million for a permanent memorial to fallen firefighters in Wisconsin Rapids.

Amherst Firefighter Corey Johnson says they have a good start, but are still a ways away from the target for the project.

"It's been a long time coming; for 10 years we have been raising funds to build this," says Johnson," and there is no state money that goes into this, it's all donation.”

The memorial will feature an information center, pavilion, flag court, statue and wall of honor. The life size statue (model shown at right) depicting three firefighters is the heart of the tribute. Behind it will lie a wall with the names of every firefighter who has died protecting lives and property in the state. Within the Firefighters Memorial Center, a computer will store information on the thousands of firefighters who have honorably served their communities, including a short biography on the firefighter with position, rank and years of service. A picture of the firefighter may also be added at any time.

This memorial, signed into law by Wisconsin governor Tommy G. Thompson, will be located in Wisconsin Rapids and will honor all firefighters, career and volunteer, within the State of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin State Firefighters Memorial Committee wanted the memorial to be centrally located so it will be easily accessible to everyone in the state.

We need your help. The Wisconsin State Firefighters Memorial will be totally funded through donations. No taxpayer money will be used. We hope the majority of the revenue is provided by state fire departments, but your help is also needed. You may give as an organization and/or individual. The projected cost of the memorial is $1-1.5 million. All donations are tax deductible. Construction of the project will begin in phases as revenue is collected.

Tickets for the raffle cost $20 a piece and for each ticket purchased, three dollars goes directly toward your local fire department. To get more information, call (715) 343-1385 or log onto www.wsfm.org.