The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) will host the 44th National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend on May 3–4, 2025, in Emmitsburg, Maryland. This solemn tribute will honor 140 firefighters who died in the line of duty—70 from 2024 and 70 from previous years.
“This weekend is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary courage and commitment of those who put their lives on the line to protect others,” said Troy Markel, Chair of the NFFF Board of Directors.
Event Details and Schedule
Two public ceremonies will take place at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park on the grounds of the National Emergency Training Center (NETC):
- Candlelight Service: Saturday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m. ET (Streaming begins at 7:00 p.m. ET)
- Memorial Service: Sunday, May 4 at 10:00 a.m. ET (Streaming begins at 9:30 a.m. ET)
Both services will be live-streamed at weekend.firehero.org and on the NFFF YouTube channel, allowing audiences nationwide to join the tribute. Thousands are expected to attend Sunday’s ceremony, featuring reflections from prominent fire service and government leaders.
Private Programming for Families
Beyond public ceremonies, the Memorial Weekend includes private programming for families and departments of the honored firefighters, offering small group sessions and remembrance activities.
“Each of these 140 firefighters made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others – a profound sacrifice that defines true heroism,” said Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the NFFF.
How Communities Can Participate
Communities are encouraged to participate in Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters by illuminating homes, landmarks, and fire stations in red from April 27 through May 4. Other remembrance opportunities include:
On May 4, the President of the United States will request that American flags be flown at half-staff across all federal buildings to honor fallen firefighters.
Visitor Information
Public parking will be available at Liberty Mountain Resort (78 Country Club Trail, Fairfield, PA), with shuttles departing from 6:30 a.m. on both May 3 and May 4.
Location:
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park
National Emergency Training Center (NETC)
16835 S. Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, MD 21727
Stay Connected
Follow updates using #FireHero2025 and #NFFF, and visit weekend.firehero.org for complete event information.
Support and Partnerships
The Memorial Weekend is supported by individual donors, corporate sponsors, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, and the U.S. Fire Administration.
