EMMITSBURG, MD -- Just as anyone expecting guests, staff and volunteers with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation are in overdrive to make sure everything is perfect.
Within days, thousands will arrive at the National Fire Academy campus to honor firefighters who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.
During the annual National Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service on Sunday, 140 names will be added to a plaque at the monument. They include 70 killed in 2024 and 70 who died in previous years.
While early forecasts called for a bright, sunny Sunday, things have changed, a typical occurrence in Maryland.
Regardless, the tributes will continue.
"We're obviously hoping for a beautiful weekend. But, we're ready. We've put up a large tent. The service will be held here, rain or shine," said Gary Krichbaum, NFFF managing director.
As of Wednesday, more than 850 family members and colleagues of the fallen firefighters had registered to attend. Thousands of other fire and rescue personnel from around the country also will be participating in the various activities.
Some will escort the families while others are members of the honor guards or bag pipers. Many will attend to salute the fallen sisters and brothers.
Throughout the weekend, families and colleagues of firefighters will have the opportunity to meet and share stories with others who've experienced similar losses.
They also will visit and spend time at the memorial and campus where they will be a rolling tribute by motorcyclists, many wearing fire helmets.
Children will decorate luminaires for their loved ones that will be displayed and lit during the candlelight vigil Saturday night.
Krichbaum, who's been involved in planning memorial weekends for the past 20 years, wants everything perfect. Nothing less.
"It's an honor and privilege to be part of this."
Susan Nicol | News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.
