Firefighters Day

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

Firefighters Day

WHEREAS, firefighters and emergency services personnel provide an incredible service to Virginians and dedicate their time, resources, and sometimes their lives, whether through countless hours as a volunteer or many years of service as a career member, to protect lives and property in our local community; and

WHEREAS, every day firefighters put their lives in immediate danger and face long-term increased health risks, including cancers or other potentially fatal diseases; and

WHEREAS, International Firefighters’ Day is observed each year on May 4 to honor firefighters who died in the line of duty while serving their communities and to express appreciation for both active and retired firefighters and reflect on their heroism; and

WHEREAS, the United States Congress and the President of the United States have designated the day of the annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, May 5, 2024, as a day to honor our fallen firefighters by lowering the American flag on all federal buildings to half-staff; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia Fallen Firefighters and Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service is held annually on the first Saturday in June to honor the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives protecting and serving the people of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Virginians, and Americans alike, can show gratitude to firefighters who are on the front lines every day by attending an annual memorial service and turning their porch lights red on May 4; and

WHEREAS, citizens of the Commonwealth are encouraged to honor fire and emergency services personnel, past and present, who, by their faithful and loyal devotion to duties, have rendered invaluable service to our communities and its citizens;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize May 4, 2024, as FIREFIGHTERS DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations