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Former local firefighter honored posthumously

Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 1:55 PM

By Steve Anderson

The Illinois State Fire Marshall's Office (IOSFM) has honored a former Lawrence County firefighter.

On Monday, July 6th, Michele Pankow was in the city of Mt. Carmel in Wabash County for a special award ceremony and presentation to the family of James Kensler. Kensler was a fireman in Lawrence County with the Lawrence-Allison Fire Protection District (LAFPD) for 5 years. He also served with the Keensburg Fire Department for 40 years and Mt. Carmel Fire Department for 6 years in Wabash County. He was recognized for his services in both counties. 

Kensler passed away in late December of 2025 at the age of 68.

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