Motorola Inc. and the Motorola Foundation have made a $1 million commitment to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
Over the next four years, Motorola will give $150,000 annually to help with expenses at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend activities in Emmitsburg. Also, they will donate $100,000 to the Paul S. Sarbanes Scholarship Fund.
NFFF Executive Director Ron Siarnicki said the foundation is very appreciative of the generous gift. "This is the largest donation that Motorola has made to the fire service. We're fortunate to have them as a corporate partner."
Since 1992, the foundation has assisted relatives of fallen heroes with education expenses. "It's about helping survivors. That's what it's all about."
Survivors of America's bravest as well as fire service officials from around the country were on hand Thursday afternoon when the donation was presented.
"Motorola is proud to stand with our nation's fire and emergency services professionals, and we have made this commitment to show our continued support and gratitude for their service to our families, our communities and our nation," said Kelly Kirwan, Vice President, Motorola Networks & Enterprise business. "For more than seven decades, Motorola has been a proud supplier and supporter of the American fire service, providing mission critical communications for our nation's First Responders. On behalf of Motorola employees, we salute our nation's fire service and pay tribute to the fallen firefighters who have given the ultimate sacrifice in serving their communities. Motorola is privileged to team with the NFFF and assist the survivors of our fallen fire service heroes."