National Fallen Firefighters Memorial facts for kids
The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial is a very special place in Emmitsburg, Maryland. Since 1990, the United States Congress has officially called it the National Memorial for firefighters who have died while on duty. This includes both full-time firefighters and those who volunteer their time to help others. It was created to honor the brave men and women of the American fire service.
What is the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial?
The memorial was built in 1981 on the campus of the National Fire Academy. It features a plaza surrounded by plaques. These plaques list the names of firefighters who have died while serving their communities. Each year, more names are added to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Honoring Fallen Heroes
When a firefighter dies while on duty, local fire departments let the United States Fire Administration know. A special notice is then quickly placed on the Memorial grounds. To show respect, the flags flying over the Memorial are lowered to half-staff. This means they are flown halfway down the flagpole. If certain rules are met, the fallen firefighter is honored at a special service held each year. The Memorial is open to everyone all year round, so people can visit and pay their respects.
Annual Service and Traditions
On October 16, 2001, President George W. Bush signed a law. This law made it a rule for the United States flag to be lowered to half-staff on all federal buildings. This happens every year to remember fallen firefighters. This special action takes place around the same time as the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service.
The date for the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service is usually the first Sunday in October. The night before this main service, a candlelight vigil is held. This is a quiet gathering where people light candles to remember the fallen. The main service itself takes place at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. These services honor firefighters who have died from all across the nation.
