Area firefighter writes history

As we write the story of 2011, one special note of recognition will be etched in the history books.

Sharon Purifoy became the second African American woman promoted to the rank of fire lieutenant the history of the Milwaukee Fire Department.

Purifoy received her promotion during a special ceremony held Thursday  in downtown Milwaukee.

“The Milwaukee Brotherhood of Firefighters salute and commend Firefighter/Paramedic Sharon Purifoy on reaching her promotion to Fire Lieutenant,” said Everett Lee Cocroft, Milwaukee Brotherhood of Firefighters president in a written statement. “You are not the exception you are exceptional!”

Purifoy, a firefighter and paramedic, is one of only four African American female firefighters in the Milwaukee Fire Department.