Monument at the National Firefighter's Memorial — click to shop First Responder Flags
In 2024, National Firefighters Memorial Day is May 5
Public law calls for the American Flag to be lowered to half-staff in observance of a select few occasions during the year. Appropriately, one of those occasions is in honor of National Firefighter’s Memorial Day.
Recently, this observation was moved from October to May. According to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, "This change was made because of the frequent uncertainties of October weather along with potential federal government shutdowns, which could impact the ability to access the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park."
- Outdoor American Flags should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, May 5, 2024.
- If your location is closed over the weekend, please consider lowering your American flag at sunset on Friday, May 3, until sunrise Monday, May 6, or as soon as your office re-opens.
What is National Firefighter's Memorial Day?
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation sponsors a tribute every May in recognition of all firefighters who died in the line of duty the previous year. The memorial weekend is hosted each year at the National Firefighter’s Memorial in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
Recognizing Those Who Have Fallen
This site was constructed in 1981 as a seven-foot stone monument featuring a sculpted Maltese Cross, the traditional symbol of the American Fire Service. American flags and firefighters' flags situated above the plaques that recognize each fallen firefighter are continually flown at half-staff throughout the campus of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial.
If you are unable to attend the National Memorial Service in Maryland, you can honor your loved ones and those close to you who have served or are currently serving the Fire Service by proudly flying the Firefighter’s Flag in front of your home or business. While the memorial is designated primarily to honor fallen firefighters, it is also a time to thank and honor the firefighters in your family and in your community.
Throughout the year, as firefighters are lost in response to emergencies, the details of their service are reported to the United States Fire Administration. Once received, the U.S.F.A. then immediately posts a notice on the grounds of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. Those whose circumstances meet certain criteria may also be specifically honored at the ceremony on National Firefighters' Memorial Day.
Remember to Lower Your Flag in Observance
Whether you are displaying your Outdoor American Flag on a Residential Flagpole in front of your home or Commercial Flagpole in front of your business, remember to lower your flag to half-staff. Lowering your flag is a sign of recognition and honor for the brave men and women who lost their lives protecting their communities from disasters, and those who continue to carry on the proud tradition.
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Have a great day, from your friends at LIBERTY FLAGS, The American Wave®.
