Each year, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation hosts a Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, Maryland, to honor firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. Family members of those heroes, as well as families of those lost in years past, gather in recognition and remembrance of the service and sacrifice made by their loved ones.
The special weekend includes opportunities for connection and sharing of stories, as newly bereaved families are greeted at the hotel by returning families, who escort and assist them in activities such as creating a tribute video and making a rubbing of the plaque that will be added to a Memorial Wall. A family day at the Memorial Park, a candlelight ceremony, and a special Memorial Service, at which families receive an American flag, are also part of the weekend. Fire fighters who lost a colleague also attend to participate in the Fire Service, as escorts to families.
Communities nationwide are invited to participate in the Weekend by watching the Candlelight Service at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, and the Memorial Service at 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 5, 2024, online at the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation website [https://weekend.firehero.org] and on social media channels. Other suggestions for communities wishing to honor fallen firefighters include these:
· Sign up for Bells Across America on May 5, as communities and individuals across the nation pause in honor and tribute;
· Light the Night in Red: From May 1 through 5, light up homes, landmarks and businesses in support and tribute;
· Sound the Sirens: Many fire stations across the country will sound their sirens at noon on Sunday, May 5;
· Lower the American flag;
· Sign the virtual Remembrance Banner;
· Issue a community proclamation.
Visit the Foundation website for more details about any of these suggestions and to sign up to show your individual or community support.