August 3, 2009
NORTHBROOK, Ill., August 3, 2009 -- Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a world leader in product safety testing services, today announced it will host the Chicago White Sox's Annual Police and Fire Night on Wednesday, August 5 at U.S. Cellular Field. The event, sponsored by UL since 2008, honors Chicago police and fire professionals for their bravery and commitment to protecting the community.
"As a global leader in fire safety and security, UL is privileged to once again work with the Chicago White Sox to honor some of Chicago's finest and bravest," said Chris Hasbrook, vice president and general manager of UL's global building materials and life safety & security industries. "UL sponsors the annual event to show our appreciation for the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep people and property safe. It also gives us the opportunity to raise awareness about important life safety issues."
The first 20,000 fans to enter the stadium will receive a pack of five Chicago White Sox baseball card magnets featuring their favorite South Side players and important UL safety tips. UL will host educational booths around U.S. Cellular Field where fans can learn important safety tips including the three P's of fire safety - prevention, protection and planning.
During the pregame ceremony, Chicago Fire Department Commissioner John W. Brook and First Deputy Superintendent James B. Jackson of the Chicago Police Department will each recognize one of their own with heroism awards.
Lieutenant Nick Cairo of the Chicago Fire Department will receive a Lambert Tree Award, which is given to firefighters who exhibit courage and great skill in the line of duty. Last August, Lieutenant Cairo entered an extremely hazardous area of a burning apartment building to rescue two young children trapped on the second floor. Carrying the two children in his arms, Lieutenant Cairo safely evacuated the building and saved the children's lives.
The Chicago Police Department will honor the late Officer Alejandro "Alex" Valadez. Officer Valadez lost his life in the line of duty during a drive-by shooting in June. He was a decorated officer and loving husband. During three short years with the department, Officer Valadez received a department commendation award and twenty-three honorable mention awards. Officer Valadez's former partner, Officer Tom Vargas, will be on hand to accept an award.
Lieutenant Cairo and Officer Vargas will receive their awards and throw out ceremonial first pitches before the White Sox take on the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.
UL will make donations to the Chicago Fire Department Gold Badge Society in honor of Lieutenant Cairo and to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation memory of Officer Valadez. Both charities are dedicated to honoring Chicago's fallen heroes and providing support and assistance to their families.
"On behalf of UL, I want to thank Lieutenant Cairo and the family of Officer Valadez, and all the men and women who serve our community as members of Chicago's police and fire departments," said Hasbrook. "Their dedicated service reminds us how important safety is in all our lives."