Some people have no choice to attend-but odd's are, you have a choice. Folks that have no choice are the family and friends of those killed in the line of duty. Naturally, I am talking about the annual National Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial Weekend that will be held October 5-8, 2006 in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
While the weekend is a focus on the family and friends of the fallen, this is a fire service event where you and your firefighters are encouraged to attend.
Someone asked me, why attend? Why go there and get all depressed? The answer is simple: Respect.
While it is the most serious event of the nation's fire service, it, quite honestly, will play a very personal and powerful role and will positively impact any firefighter who attends-no matter how far removed you may be from a tragic loss. It is a weekend that touches every possible emotion of all ranges, highs and of course, lows. It is a brother and sisterhood gathering, and it is an opportunity to show respect.
While the survivors of the fallen firefighters will participate in Family Day activities on Saturday on the National Fire Academy campus in Emmitsburg, the incredible and deeply touching evening Candlelight Service at the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton will conclude the day and all are welcome.
On Sunday, fire department honor guard units and bagpipers from across the United States will open the Memorial Service with a procession honoring the fallen firefighters and their families. The national tribute will conclude with the unveiling of plaques listing the names of the 2005 fallen heroes and others being honored who died in previous years.
Join us in Emmitsburg.
Or if you are really unable to attend, show your respect by sponsoring special events in your community. Ask your local cable company to make the nationally-broadcast services available so all may share in honoring those who gave their lives.
Go to www.FIREHERO.org for additional information.
But try to join us, it will absolutely matter to you. And it will especially matter to the families of your brother and sister firefighters who lost their lives doing what you do, of whom the weekend is devoted.
