By Jennifer Edwards
The Cincinnati Enquirer

ANDERSON TWP. - And this one belongs to the firefighters.

The fire department recruited a heavy hitter to help raise about $150,000 needed for a $200,000 firefighters memorial: Reds broadcaster Marty Brennaman.

DONATION

Tax-deductible donations for the Anderson Township Firefighters Memorial at Beech Acres Park can be sent The Anderson Township Firefighter's Memorial Fund at 6211 Salem Road, Cincinnati, 45230. Or, for more information, call (513) 474-3151. Primary donors, those who contribute $2,000 or more - will receive a bronzed miniature fire helmet produced by the Verdin Bell Co. that will be mounted on a wooden base for display.

The 30-year Anderson Township resident signed 25 letters earlier this week urging Cincinnati corporations to support the cause.

"Since the events of 9-11, there's no question we all have gained a greater appreciation for the men and women of the police and fire service throughout the nation, and in our own communities," Brennaman writes.

Brennaman said he was honored the department asked for his help.

"Hopefully in the not too distant future this thing will come to fruition," he said of the memorial. "It's important to honor these people because of the work they do. Up until 9-11 I think we just assumed and took for granted all that they do to protect us and prevent disasters."

Brennaman's support comes after firefighters invited him to Anderson's fire stations for a tour of quarters and fire engines. They hope his presence in their campaign will rejuvenate fund-raising, which has fallen short of original expectations.

Plans call for a memorial at Beech Acres Park in honor of the fire department's fallen men and women and all those who have served with the agency since 1941.

A 7-foot-high showcase bronze firefighter statue will be erected on a 5-foot platform of concrete and granite. There also will be an eternal lamp, benches, landscaping, flags and lighting.

The maker of the World Peace Bell in Newport, Verdin Bell Co., is creating the bronze statue.

Over the past two years, the fire department raised about $50,000, mostly after a bulk mailer went out to the community and corporations. Firefighters also held a fund-raising event last winter.

On Wednesday, Brennaman signed the letters and ate a chili lunch with Fire Chief Mark Ober, firefighter and memorial committee chairman Mark Owens, and eight other firefighter/EMTs.

"Our department has gained a great friend," Ober said. "He has been involved in the community the best way he can."

E-mail jedwards@enquirer.com.