Firefighter/EMT Michael Altman — Chicago Fire Department
End of Watch: March 2026

Firefighter/EMT Michael Altman, age 32, answered his final alarm while battling a residential fire in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood. A fourth‑generation firefighter, Michael carried forward a legacy of service that ran deep in his family and even deeper in his heart.

He fell through the first floor into the basement while working to protect the residents inside. His brothers and sisters brought him out with the same urgency and devotion he had shown countless times before. Despite every effort, Michael succumbed to his injuries the following day.

He leaves behind a wife, a young child, and another child on the way — a family now held in the arms of an entire nation of firefighters and those who honor them.

Michael’s life was defined by courage, loyalty, and a willingness to step into danger so others could live. His sacrifice will not be forgotten. His name will be carried forward with reverence. And his story will stand among those who gave everything in the service of others.

Rest easy, brother. We’ll take it from here.

Fire Line Stands with:
Israel Defense Forces • UK Ministry of Defence • French Armed Forces • Bundeswehr • Canadian Armed Forces • Australian Defence Force • NATO