Eugene W. Blackmon Jr. was born on July 31, 1959 in Chicago, Illinois. He grew up on the south side of Chicago where he attended Burnside Elementary and Harlan High Schools. Even at an early age, he was an individual who shared his love of life and adventure with everyone who came in contact with him. After high school, Eugene attended Olive Harvey Junior College and Chicago State University.
Eugene joined the Chicago Fire Department in February 1987. His outgoing and spirited personality and his dedication to service and giving back would prove to be a perfect match for his chosen profession. He began his exciting and rewarding career with the Chicago Fire Department at Engine 5. This afforded him the opportunity to apply the skills and vast amount of knowledge he gained at the Fire Academy to real life situations. In August 1988, Eugene began another phase of his fire career at Truck 4. He was fortunate to be paired with a group of Fire Fighters who readily shared their knowledge and experience with this young candidate. He was diligent and soaked up everything that was offered to him soon proving himself to be an exceptional as well as a knowledgeable Fire Fighter.
Eugene’s easy going spirit, as well as, his vivacious and charismatic personality made him a prime candidate to become an instructor at the Chicago Fire Academy. After completing this assignment, he joined Squad 5 where he was assigned until his death, May 19, 1998. In honor of that heroic day the CFD created the Eugene Blackmon Award, which is presented to a firefighter candidate at graduation and dedicated the Fast Rescue Boat 6-8-8 in his name.
Eugene’s zest for life still lives on in the memories of those who knew and loved him. He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the profession which he so loved and will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his family, friends and colleagues.
…17 years & counting…still missing my cousin…
– Greg BlackmonRest In Peace, Eugene! Your
– Darlene ParisPresence May Not Be Here, but
Memories of You and Your
Indomitable Spirit Remain Alive!
My classmate. Eugene was a great swimmer on the Harlan Swim Team. I just remember him as a great classmate. He had the biggest natural, prettiest smile, what a wonderful young man. I know his family misses him so much. Just remembering my classmate.
– Barbara StewardI wish we had more time pop.I could have used you these last 20+ years.
– SydniMy dad was amazing and he lives through me. I wish i had more time with you.
– Ryan BlackmonI met Gene in 1991 through his brother David who was my classmate and co-staffer on the Chicago State U. student paper from 1989-92. He would come through the office now and again and I learned a ton about the fire dept. and the breadth of the work they do. I learned of his passing while reading the paper during a break at work in the Loop a day after his passing.
Amazing human and a huge loss for the community. Rest well brother.
– Juba Kalamka