MUSCATINE, Iowa – The Muscatine Fire Department will hold a memorial ceremony at 7 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 14, 2026, at the Firefighters Memorial (Cedar & East 5th) to honor Firefighter Michael Kruse, who died in the line of duty 24 years ago.
The public is invited to join the firefighters, family, and friends in remembering his courage and service.
Kruse, a 27-year veteran, was killed on Sept. 14, 2002, when the roof of a three-story home collapsed during firefighting operations. His loss remains the department’s greatest tragedy and a defining moment for Muscatine firefighters.
The ceremony will include a wreath-laying, placement of firefighting gear, and a moment of silence. Family, friends, and community members are invited to join firefighters in remembering Kruse’s service, mentorship, and dedication.
Fire Chief Mike Hartman and former Chief Jerry Ewers both credit Kruse’s leadership and professionalism with shaping generations of Muscatine firefighters. His story is now part of the department’s recruit training to reinforce safety, preparedness, and the lessons learned from the 2002 fire.
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Kruse’s death came just one year and three days after 343 firefighters were lost during the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. For the Muscatine community, the timing underscored both the risks of the profession and the closeness of loss.
Never forget: 25 years later, remembering 9/11
Muscatine Fire and Muscatine Police will be marking the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026.
At 7 a.m., during the Fire Department shift change, a wreath will be laid and a moment of silence held at the memorial outside the Public Safety Building. The annual stair climb will follow at the MHS Stadium, with everyone asked to arrive by 8 a.m. Participation does not require climbing — staff and supporters are encouraged to attend even if they are not walking the 2,200 steps symbolizing the 110 floors of the World Trade Center.
A Ground Zero flag will be raised by MUSCO employees who worked at the site, followed by brief remarks, a presentation of colors, and the bell ring at 8:46 a.m. to begin the climb. After all climbers finish, the Ground Zero flag will be retired with a final moment of silence.
MPW will display its large flag at the stadium, and the high bridge lights will shine red, white, and blue that evening.
Those attending should park only in the Cedar Street or Bonnie Drive lots, using any unpainted, open space.
