Congress created the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to honor America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the non-profit Foundation has developed and expanded programs that fulfill that mandate. Our mission is to honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes and to provide resources to assist their families in rebuilding their lives and work within the fire service community to reduce firefighter deaths and injuries.
Each October, the Foundation sponsors the official national tribute to all firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. Thousands attend the weekend activities held at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The Weekend features special programs for families and co-workers along with moving public ceremonies.
Help families attend the Weekend
The Foundation provides travel, lodging, and meals for immediate family members of fallen firefighters being honored at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. This allows families to participate in sessions conducted by trained grief counselors and in the private and public tributes.
Offer support programs for Fire Hero families
When a firefighter dies in the line of duty, the Foundation provides families with a place to turn. Families receive emotional assistance through a Fire Hero Family Network, which matches families with similar experiences and circumstances. Families receive specialized grief publications. Our website provides extensive information on benefits, Foundation programs, and other resources.
Award scholarships to Fire Hero family members
Spouses, life partners, children, and step-children of fallen firefighters are eligible for scholarship assistance for education and job training costs.
