By Matt Kapko
FireRescue1 News Editor
As many as 5,000 people paid tribute to the men and women killed in the line of duty during 2005 last weekend at the 25th annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.
Most of the families of the 100 men and women being honored this year were at the National Fallen Firefighters Monument in Emmitsburg, Md., for the event. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the U.S. Fire Administration hosted the 3-day tribute for the 100 firefighters that died in the line of duty in 2005 and seven firefighters who died in previous years.
Ron Siarnicki, executive director of the foundation, said this year’s event marked “a special tribute for the families of our firefighter heroes killed in the line of duty. Survivors from across the country will meet, establish emotional connections, and celebrate the lives of their beloved firefighters.”
Engraved bricks honoring each of the fallen firefighters were permanently laid into plaques on the Walk of Honor leading to the monument. Click here to search for and learn more about the fallen heroes that have been dedicated at the monument since it was created in 1981.
The foundation’s support programs and services extend beyond the annual gathering in Maryland, Siarnicki said. The foundation does all it can to “ensure that families and colleagues of fallen firefighters receive the support they need to cope with the loss of their loved ones for as long as it is needed,” he said.
A reception was held in Washington, D.C, on Thursday evening. Thousands more gathered last weekend at the campus of the National Fire Academy where the national memorial is located.
Hundreds of motorcycle riders left Frederick, Md., at 11:30 a.m. Saturday to ride to the monument. A candlelight service was held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg. The weekend came to a close with a Memorial Service at 10 a.m. Sunday at the National Fallen Firefighters Monument.
The National Preparedness Network (PREPnet) and a Department of Homeland Security broadcast center broadcast both the Candlelight and Memorial Services live from Emmitsburg, Md.. Click here for more information.
For more information, visit www.firehero.org