Memorial Weekend Attendance Facts

• Due to the global pandemic there continues to be uncertainties, about COVID-19 restrictions, and challenges the pandemic may bring.
• As the NFFF works with the USFA and FEMA, there may be changes to the number of attendees.
• The NFFF wishes to ensure the families of the fallen and the departments who have lost a firefighter, that they are our top priority.
• The NFFF will continue to send out updates to Fire Hero Families about registering, hotel reservations, etc.
• The NFFF will send out updates for volunteers, as well.
• Other attendees may be limited, depending on the USFA and FEMA restrictions during that time. We will continue to update the website – memorialweek.wpengine.com and our social media handles:
  • Our official hashtag is #FireHero.
  • Facebook: @NationalFallenFirefightersFoundation
  • Twitter: @NFFF_News
  • Instagram: @fireheronfff
• We will continue to monitor federal guidelines and/or requirements and provide updates to ensure the fire service and the public are aware of any tightening or easing of restrictions allowing them to participate.
• All attendees should plan to follow CDC guidelines. Individuals who have not been vaccinated will be required to wear masks and maintain social distancing requirements. Fully vaccinated against COVID-19, means 14 days post-final injection.
• We also encourage everyone to follow the CDC guidelines recommending COVID-19 vaccinations. #WeCanDoThis.
• Current Maryland guidelines are as follows:
  • Effective July 1st, all emergency mandates and restrictions will be terminated. There will no longer be any statewide mask order in effect for any settings, including schools, camps, and childcare facilities.
• Current Pennsylvania guidelines are as follows:
  • Effective June 28th – face masks are no longer required indoors or outdoors.
  • Fully vaccinated Pennsylvanians may choose not to wear a mask unless they are required by a business or organization.
  • Pennsylvania will continue to follow CDC guidance for wearing a mask where required by law.

Fire Hero Families Memorial Weekend Attendance Facts

• Please follow the information for “Memorial Weekend Attendance Facts” above.
• At the moment, FEMA is limiting the capacity of attendees at the Memorial to 1,000 people.
  • We cannot predict if they will allow more attendees in October.
  • The priority is new families and the departments/agencies who have lost a firefighter and those who must be on campus to work and/or participate.
  • It is unlikely the event will be open to the public; therefore, returning Fire Hero Families are unlikely to get on campus unless restrictions are lifted.
  • Family Programs makes the determination on how returning Fire Hero Families are utilized.
• It is recommended that if returning Fire Hero Family members want to come and attend the Memorial Weekend – they should wait and see if the restrictions on the number of attendees is lifted.
• If returning Fire Hero Families are being utilized to provide service to the NFFF and to assist with sessions, etc., for Memorial Weekend – they should book flights and rooms. The returning families should also be made aware that they may not be able to attend any of the ceremonies.
• Only vaccinated Fire Hero Families will be allowed to assist during the Memorial Weekend. Social distancing rules will prevent them from being closer than 6-feet from anyone else.

Fire Service Personnel Memorial Weekend Attendance Facts

• Please follow the information for “Memorial Weekend Attendance Facts” above.
• Fire Service Personnel are advised there are restrictions to the number of people who will be allowed on campus. Therefore, they are unlikely to be allowed to attend the ceremonies unless:
  • They are from a fire department who is having a firefighter honored; and as long as their attendance does not go above the restricted numbers allowed by FEMA.
  • Restrictions are lifted by FEMA.