CAHOKIA HEIGHTS – Members of the Cahokia Heights Fire Department joined city officials, community leaders, law enforcement officers and the Jonas family in Cahokia Heights to dedicate a stretch of Bond Avenue as “Lt. Gregory Jonas Memorial Avenue,” honoring the late lieutenant’s service and sacrifice.
The designation covers Bond Avenue from South 43rd Street to South 47th Street in Cahokia Heights.
State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, and State Sen. Christopher Belt, D-Swansea, also attended the event with family, friends and colleagues.
The ceremony recognized the life of Jonas, who served in the Alorton and Centreville police departments and died in the line of duty while on patrol in 2009.
Hoffman and Belt passed House Joint Resolution 1, which designates that portion of Bond Avenue in Cahokia Heights as “Lt. Gregory Jonas Memorial Avenue” and directs the Illinois Department of Transportation to place a sign in recognition.
“Lt. Jonas is a man who was committed to our community, someone who helped countless people through decades of impactful work,” Hoffman said. “In talking with his wife Viola and other family members, I’m touched by his story and their commitment to keep his memory alive. I hope that this designation and sign can provide a meaningful moment of reflection for those who view it.”
The Cahokia Heights Police and Fire Departments said in a statement that their members stood “alongside our brothers and sisters in blue, elected officials, community leaders, and the Jonas family” as the avenue was dedicated.
“Our presence was about more than attending a ceremony; it was about showing unwavering support to a family who continues to carry the memory of a loved one who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others,” the police and fire officials said.
The departments said the event reflected unity among public safety agencies and the community.
“Public safety is built on relationships, and whether we wear a firefighter’s helmet or a police officer’s badge, we stand united in our shared commitment to protecting our communities,” the post said. “Today was a reminder that we are one public safety family, and we will always stand beside those who have given so much.”
The fire and police departments also thanked elected officials, city staff, organizers and community leaders for helping make the event possible.
“Their commitment ensured that Lt. Jonas’ legacy will continue to be remembered for generations to come,” the post said.
The departments closed with a comment to the Jonas family: “Please know that your loved one’s service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. We are grateful to have stood with you today as our community came together to honor a hero.”
