05/01/2026
This weekend, 204 firefighters who died in the line of duty will be honored during the 45th National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend as families, fire service leaders, and communities across the country gather to honor their lives and sacrifice.
The congressionally established National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, located on the campus of the National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, Maryland, serves as the nation’s official monument honoring firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Newly honored firefighters are permanently added to the memorial each year during Memorial Weekend. Hosted by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), the weekend brings hundreds of fire hero families, fire service leaders, government officials, and supporters together for ceremonies of remembrance, reflection, and national tribute.
“The loss of these 204 fallen firefighters is felt most deeply by the families and loved ones left behind. They were parents, partners, colleagues, and friends who will forever be remembered for their bravery and their devotion to duty,” said National Fallen Firefighters Foundation CEO Victor Stagnaro. “During the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, we will add their names to the National Memorial, ensuring they are remembered by a grateful nation.”