Historic fire in Waukegan, 3-18-75

This message comes from Brian Murphy:

On March 18, 1975, the Waukegan News-Sun reported on a dramatic incident involving multiple fires at an apartment complex located just across the street from the old central Waukegan Fire Station. The cause of the fires was traced back to a failure in the building’s gas distribution system, which led to several simultaneous blazes throughout the structure. Firefighters from the Waukegan Fire Department responded swiftly, using their Hi-Ranger Snorkel and a mid-1950s Seagrave aerial ladder truck—complete with a 85-foot, three-section ladder. These were some of the early tools used by firefighters to rescue people and contain the flames. The photos were captured by News-Sun photographer Don Martin, who likely documented the chaos and heroism of that day. It's safe to say that the brave men who rushed to the scene are now long retired, but their efforts are still remembered. A fascinating piece of local history!