Replies

The most difficult thing the firefighters will face--and that's not just the FDNY, but firefighters nationally--will not be the anniversary of 9/11, but the annual ceremony they have at the National Fire Academy in Emmittsburg, Maryland to honor firefighters who have lost their lives in the past year. President Bush went to the ceremony last year and I do hope he goes this year. It's going to be wrenching.

I know the ceremony is held in fall, but I haven't found out the exact date. When I do, I'll let you know.

Here's the announcement of the memorial service. It was broadcast on CSpan last year. I hope President Bush speaks again, and I do hope Rudy is invited.

Release No.: 02-019
Release Date: March 5, 2002

National Memorial Service to Honor Fallen Firefighters

Emmitsburg, MD - The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation today announced that the Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service honoring firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2001 will be held in Washington, DC, on Sunday, October 6, 2002, at the MCI Center.

"The unprecedented number of firefighters being honored this year will necessitate our moving the memorial service from the site of the National Fallen Firefighters Monument in Emmitsburg," stated Foundation Chairman Hal Bruno. "The loss of every firefighter is a national tragedy, and this year’s service will honor those who died at the World Trade Center along with those who made the ultimate sacrifice across the country."

Families of the fallen firefighters and fire and emergency services leaders will join federal, state, and local government officials in this year’s tribute and other events honoring the fallen fire heroes and their survivors. One day will be set aside for family activities. Sunday will feature honor guard parades, remembrances of our lost heroes, and special tributes during the public memorial service. Thousands are expected to join in America’s day of tribute to the fallen fire heroes.

Each October a grateful Nation honors its fallen fire heroes during the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. This year will mark the 21st observance of the national tribute and will include the largest number of fallen firefighters killed in the line of duty in the history of America’s fire service.

The Foundation will release additional details on the Memorial Service and related events announced as soon as the plans are finalized. For more information, contact the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation at 301-447-1365 or visit their web site at www.firehero.org.