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National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
The sound of a bell holds special significance for firefighters. Historically, the toll of a bell summoned members to the station, signaled the beginning of a shift, notified departments of a call for help, and indicated a call was completed and the unit had returned to the station.
Departments sounded a series of bells when a firefighter died in the line of duty to alert all members that a comrade had made the ultimate sacrifice. This time-honored tradition continues today during the funerals or memorial services for firefighters.
For the eighth year, bells will ring from coast to coast as a grateful nation pauses on Sunday, October 6, 2019 to honor those firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2018 and previous years. Fire departments and their places of worship will join the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) for Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters, part of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation is asking communities, fire service organizations, and religious organizations to help us honor our fallen firefighters by participating in Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters. A moment of remembrance can occur at any time leading up to and including Memorial Weekend. Fire department representatives are encouraged to work with their clergy and community leaders to develop an appropriate tribute.
Learn More About Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters
