Why are flags lowered?
The display honors firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service
The observance honors firefighters who died in service to their communities.
The day in one line
Half-staff from sunrise to sunset
Public Law 107-51 directs federal flags to be lowered for the annual memorial service.
Is a new proclamation required?
No. The annual half-staff display is established by federal law, so the observance does not depend on a new presidential proclamation.
When are flags lowered?
From sunrise to sunset on the day of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. Mast lists the date in the current annual federal order.
How the national memorial began
The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Emmitsburg, Maryland, was established as the nation's official place of tribute to firefighters who die in the line of duty. Families and members of the fire service gather there each year for a candlelight service and the national memorial service.
How half-staff became part of the tribute
In 2001, Congress enacted Public Law 107-51, directing American flags on all federal office buildings to be lowered each year in honor of the service. The law connects a nationwide flag display to the ceremony in Emmitsburg.
How communities participate
Beyond lowering flags, fire departments and communities hold bell ceremonies, sound sirens, illuminate landmarks in red, and remember the individual firefighters whose names are added to the national memorial.