Save the Date

The Virginia Fallen Firefighters & Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service is held annually on the first Saturday in June. The 2026 ceremony is set to take place on Saturday, June 6.

This public event honors the bravery and sacrifice of Virginia’s fallen firefighters and EMS personnel. For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will be livestreamed. Fire departments interested in contributing apparatus or Honor Guard units are encouraged to contact the Virginia Department of Fire Programs at pio@vdfp.virginia.gov.

2025 Virginia Firefighter and EMS Memorial Service

History of the Memorial Service

For over 20 years, on the first Saturday in June, we gather to honor the courageous firefighters and EMS personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. This annual event, hosted by the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, recognizes those who have been acknowledged by the Virginia Line of Duty Act in the past year.

This memorial service expresses our deep gratitude, unwavering support to the families left behind and reflecting on the unyielding dedication of our firefighters and EMS personnel. It is a powerful moment for our community to unite, pay tribute to the fallen and renew our commitment to those who continue to serve with such selflessness and bravery.

Ceremony Highlights

  • Honor Guard Procession: A solemn march to pay respect to our fallen heroes.
  • Memorial Roll Call: A reading of the names of those we have lost.
  • Guest Speakers: Hear from distinguished guests who will share their words of remembrance and gratitude.
  • Musical Tributes: Performances that reflect the solemnity and respect of the occasion.
  • Family Recognition: Special acknowledgment of the families who have endured such great loss.

Eligibility

Each year, we honor the dedicated individuals who have been approved under the Line of Duty Act (LODA) for their service and sacrifice.

The memorial service recognizes those whose LODA approvals were finalized during the previous calendar year. This year's honorees are recognized under LODA for their bravery and dedication to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

An annual list of eligible Honorees is provided by the Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security containing honorees who have received Virginia LODA Approval between January 1 and December 31 of the prior year.

Primary Event Contact

For more information about the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service, please contact Will Merritt, Public Information Officer (PIO) at (804) 249-1986 or via email at pio@vdfp.virginia.gov.