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 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 life; and,

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

WHEREAS, firefighters navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic to respond to hundreds of thousands of calls for service in 2021; 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,

WHEREAS, Firefighters Day provides a day to express appreciation for both active and retired firefighters and reflect on their heroism; 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 show gratitude to firefighters who are on the front lines every day by attending the annual memorial service and turning their porch lights red on May 4;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize May 4, 2022 as FIREFIGHTERS DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations