Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial

Every year the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial honors the sacrifice made by IAFF members -- professional firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical personnel in the United States and Canada – who gave their lives while serving their country and community.

The Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial, located in the shadow of Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs, honors the sacrifice made by IAFF members who have given their lives in the line of duty. The annual ceremony remains an uplifting service for the families, friends, and loved ones, celebrating the lives, heroism and accomplishments of our union’s bravest of the brave.  This year the memorial takes place on Saturday, September 19th.  

“Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial” by Mark Treglio

This year, my husband has been asked to attend along with the other new hires within the past year.  This opportunity allows the new firefighters to see this beautiful and reflective ceremony while also gaining perspective of the dedication and heartache of when a firefighter falls.  I was pleased to see my husband’s organization take the initiative to have the newbies take part in this ceremony as a way to engage in the community, support other men and women who have fallen, and see the family and network that is throughout this country that stand behind firefighters and paramedics. 

                                                                                                         “FireFighter’s Memorial” by Adam Fagen is licensed under CC BY2.0

As his wife, I find it comforting to   know that this organization honors the men and women each year who have served our country. I find it consoling that families partake in this ceremony surrounded by others who support and honor them. I find it heartening that a community feels like a family and a family that makes you a part of a greater community.  This is a blessing that my husband has joined this family and we can celebrate and pay reverence to our family members.

The IAFF is the driving force behind nearly every advance in the fire and emergency services in the 21st century. The IAFF represents more than 300,000 full-time professional firefighters and paramedics in more than 3,100 affiliates. IAFF members protect more than 85 percent of the population in communities throughout the United States and Canada. The IAFF is also one of the most active lobbying organizations in Washington, DC. To learn more visit IAFF Fire Fighters.