From the Chicago Sun-Times: Robert Hoff, a third generation Chicago firefighter, was chosen this week by Mayor Richard M. Daley to serve as the city’s fire commissioner.

Hoff is one of the most decorated firefighters in department history. He has twice won the Carter Harrison Award, the department’s highest honor for bravery. In 1984, he suffered burns so severe in an attic fire that he spent 21 days in the burn unit.

A 33-year veteran, Hoff served as incident commander for the team of Chicago firefighters who traveled to New York to assist after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.

Hoff replaces John Brooks, who resigned after allegations of sexual harassment and subsequent cover up.