By: Richard L. Smith
The City of Summit Fire Department is set to participate in the 2024 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend and the accompanying Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters event.
This annual tribute, held in Emmitsburg, Maryland, is organized by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to commemorate firefighters who have died in the line of duty over the past year.
Since 2005, the Summit Fire Department has consistently attended this solemn event, with plans to join again on May 4 and 5 this year.
The weekend features various activities designed to support the families of the fallen, including counseling sessions, family activities, a candlelight vigil, and a memorial service at which families receive a flag and badge in honor of their loved ones.
Each honored firefighter's name is also added to a plaque at the memorial site on the foundation's campus.
Summit Fire Chief Eric Evers expressed his pride in the department's involvement.
“Our members play a critical role in the operations of the event, working alongside other departments to ensure the weekend goes smoothly. It's an honor to support the foundation and provide a meaningful memorial for the families of these brave individuals," he said.
The event also included notable participation from Summit Fire Department members in 2023, such as Chief Eric Evers, Deputy Chief Paul Imbimbo, and several other key personnel, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to the cause.
Additionally, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation encourages communities nationwide to participate in Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters.
This initiative asks fire departments, businesses, and individuals to illuminate their buildings or homes with red lights from May 1 to 5 as a tribute to the fallen heroes and their families.
More information on how to participate can be found on the foundation’s website at firehero.org/light-the-night.