A recent trip to Maryland found us visiting the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Emmitsburg, MD.
“Three firemen raise a flag at ground zero in silent tribute to those brave firefighters who answered the call. This noble flag is raise permanently in honor of those heros and all who serve this great nation. May God continue to bless America!” Sculptor: Stan Watts
“The United States Congress created the National Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) in 1992 to lead a nationwide effort to honor the memories of all U.S. firefighters who died in the line of duty and to provide support to their loved ones. As part of this mission, each May the Foundation hosts the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg. Maryland. [The Foundation} offer(s) activities throughout the weekend so that families of the fallen will find reassurance that their loved ones will not be forgotten, and they have a place to find comfort and compassion.” – National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (www.fireher0.org)
This memorial is located on the FEMA National Emergency Training Center Campus. On some of the plaques you will notice a coin placed next to a name. Those coins have much significance. Although these particular coins have much significance for these firefighters, they are also very significant when placed on a veteran’s headstone. Coins left on a plaque next to a name or on a headstone lets the deceased family know that somebody stopped by to pay their respect.
A penny means you/firefighter/veteran visited.
A nickel means firefighter/veteran and the deceased trained together.
A dime means firefighter/veteran and the deceased served together in some capacity.
A quarter is very significant because it means that firefighter/veteran was there when that firefighter/veteran died.
To view 15 slides from the memorial Click here
