JACKSONVILLE- Jacksonville Association of Firefighters Local 122 members Eric Prosswimmer and Gordon Simms spent their Halloween representing the Jacksonville Firefighters in the 2004 United States Marine Corp Marathon.

Both firefighters represented Jacksonville in fine fashion, finishing the 26.2 mile race in slightly over 4 hours. However, it was Prosswimmer who made the biggest statement, running the marathon in firefighting gear.

Prosswimmer ran the entire marathon wearing his bunker pants, helmet, and an SCBA. His effort grew national attention, with his picture being displayed in the November 1st edition of the New York Times. He was joined by Ypsilanti, MI Local 401 member Max Anthouard, who also ran with firefighting gear.

In all, over 40 firefighters from all over the country raced in the marathon and raised over $40,000 for the International Association of Firefighters Burn Foundation. Prosswimmer and Simms contributed $2,000 to the cause.