A sad day in Chicago Fire history...C.J. Brown to retire

News today of C.J. Brown's impending retirement after Saturday's match against Chivas USA means the Fire will be losing two legends after this weekend.  C.J. has had a storied 13 year career with the Fire and is the only remaining original member of the Fire.  C.J. provided insight to Franco Panizo on why he is finally hanging up his boots. 

While I could write for days and days about C.J., I think it's safe to you cannot replace a Chicago Fire original.  What do you think?  What's your favorite C.J. memory?  Do you remember the first time you saw him play in a Fire uniform?  Any favorite C.J. stories?  Please feel free to share them to give tribute to a Fire legend.  C.J., thanks for all you have done for us, you will truly be missed!

Follow me after the break to get a little of my personal insight on C.J.

I don't actually recall the first game I ever saw him play in a Fire uniform.  I do remember, as I watched the Fire whenever I could, noticing the same guy that played with a hunger and tenacity that seemed endless.  He always seemed to hustle and play the game the right way.  He didn't shy away or back down from anyone, and he is one of the toughest players I have seen play at any level.  Again, it's hard for me to write anything that can come close to doing justice to his long career with the Fire.  Again, I would like to thank C.J. for his devotion, hard work, and for him truly representing the meaning of the words Tradition, Honor, and Passion.  I wish you the best of luck in the future, and I hope you get a chance to remain with the Fire in some capacity in the future.  It has been a pleasure watching you over the years.