Nation Pauses to Remember 204 Firefighters who Gave the Ultimate Sacrifice
EMMITSBURG, MD -- As large flags whipped in the brilliant sunshine, thousands from around the country gathered here Sunday to remember 204 firefighters for giving the ultimate sacrifice.
Tears, hugs, salutes, bagpipe music, beating drums. The annual National Firefighters Memorial Service had that and more.
Survivors of the fallen huddled under blankets as they waited for their loved one's name to be called and their image to appear on large sceens.
A plaque with the names of 204 fallen firefighters was unveiled during the weekend events. Some colleagues and other survivors left coins.
Among those recognized were 97 who perished in 2025 and 107 from previous years.
"It was very touching. I had no idea what to expect," said Kila Stillion as she held onto a flag she received during the ceremony.
Her father, Tri-Community Firefighter John Saunders was killed on April 17, 2025, while battling a house fire in Greenwich, Ohio.
Stillion, who was joined by family members, said all were appreciative of the support including others who also suffered losses.
Nissa Levings also was moved by the outpouring of support.
Her husband, Central Pierce Fire and Rescue Deputy Fire Marshal Brian Albert Annis-Levings, died of cancer in 2022.
"It was fabulous. I appreciate all the time the volunteers put in to make sure everything is perfect. They think of everything..."
National Fallen Firefighter Foundation CEO Victor Stagnaro struggled to find the right words.
"...When (Mesa Fire Chief) Mary Cameli got down on her knee to talk to the boy who was upset. I don't know what she said to him, but he went from being scared to smiling so proud."
Lorraine Carli, a Roll of Honor reader during the service, added: "This is a labor of love.."
Los Angeles County Firefighter Halman Layne said he volunteers annually because of the families.
"It's a tough walk. And, our goal or promise is to walk that walk with you."
About the Author
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.