When we call, they arrive within minutes. They risk their lives for us and for our families. They wholeheartedly participate in our communities with courage and caring attitudes. They are America’s professional firefighters. At Liberty Mutual we take heart that these hard-working men and women put their best on the line every day so that we can enjoy safer lives. This month we ask you to join us as we celebrate those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of public safety.
A very special date.
On September 17th, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) will honor its members who have given their all in the line of duty during the 2011 Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial. This day of recognition and tribute will include such activities as a memorial service for professional colleagues and families, a motorcycle remembrance ride and a procession of firefighting equipment.
With sadness and ceremony, nearly 100 names will be solemnly added to the Wall of Honor located at the national Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This wall already holds the names of over 2,000 fallen firefighters who have been recognized since the program began in 1976.
A place of recognition and remembrance.
The IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial is a permanent monument to the thousands of fire fighters who have been killed in the line of duty. Located in scenic Colorado Springs, Colorado, it’s a peaceful place of remembrance set in the natural beauty of the American West. It was established in 1984 when the city leased land to the IAFF for the purpose of erecting a permanent tribute to fallen firefighters. The site’s signature bronze firefighter statue arrived in 1987 and the Wall of Honor was erected two years later in 1989. Today the location benefits from international exposure and has become a destination for all those involved in firefighting around the world as well as grateful citizens who live safer lives thanks to the work these professionals do.
A fraternity of professionals.
The International Association of Fire Fighters is an organization that represents nearly 400,000 fulltime fire fighters and paramedics who protect and serve our nation. Formed in 1918, the IAFF was established to unite firefighters under a common mission and organizational body. Since then the IAFF has helped advance firefighting technology, advocate for better working conditions for firefighters and help educate and support communities across the United States.
The IAFF works diligently to improve our lives through safety innovations that many of us benefit from every day yet rarely take time to notice – like the integrated emergency services system at work in your own community. Each year the IAFF also provides important financial assistance to the families of its members who have lost their lives in the line of duty as well as victims of natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina, to whom the IAFF has donated nearly $2 million dollars.
A great source for information, inspiration.
The IAFF has a family-friendly website that’s full of useful and interesting content on and about firefighters, including details on the annual memorial service for fallen firefighters. This month or anytime you and your family have the chance to pause and consider how firefighters influence our lives consider a visit to www.iaff.org.