Firefighter After Action Review Podcast: Southwest Boulevard Gasoline Storage Tank Fire – Kansas City, Missouri
In this episode of the Firefighter After Action Review Podcast, Kansas City Fire Department leaders—including Chief of Department Ross Grunden, Battalion Chief Ted Henry, and Battalion Chief Mike Hopkins—reflect on the 1959 Southwest Boulevard Fire that claimed the lives of five firefighters. Retired Firefighter John Sirna, the grandson of one of the fallen, shares how the tragedy shaped his family, his career, and the deep bonds within the fire service. Together, they explore how the incident led to lasting changes in tactics, equipment, and remembrance.
Memorial Monday — A Tragic Storm Response in Remsen, Iowa
On June 22, 1974, Firefighter Robert “Bob” Arens lost his life while heroically attempting to rescue 18-year-old Jean Heidesch during a violent storm in Remsen, Iowa.
Bases Loaded for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
This summer, step up to the plate and support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation at three exciting Major League Baseball games.
Firefighter After Action Review Podcast: Kansas City, Missouri
In this episode of the After Action Review Podcast: Kansas City, Fire Chief Ross Grundyson and Battalion Chief Mike Hopkins of the Kansas City, Missouri Fire Department share historical context and insight into three tragic incidents—and reflect on how each one shaped their department and influenced the broader fire service.
NFFF Earns Top Ratings for Transparency and Accountability
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) is honored to receive the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar/Candid and a 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the 13th consecutive year—both the highest recognitions awarded to nonprofit organizations.
NFFF Featured on the Cover of CRACKYL Magazine
We’re honored to share that the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) and the Canadian Fallen Firefighters Foundation (CFFF) are featured on the cover of CRACKYL Magazine! This special issue highlights the important work both organizations are doing to support the fire service community.
Memorial Monday — Salt Lake City’s Victory Theater Fire
On a quiet May morning in 1943, a fire at Salt Lake City’s historic Victory Theater turned deadly, claiming the lives of three firefighters and leaving a legacy of sacrifice that still echoes today.
Honoring Captain Jeffrey Bowen: Another Powerful Staff Ride Experience in Asheville, North Carolina
Firefighters retrace the path of tragedy and resilience to learn from the day Captain Jeffrey Bowen gave his life in service.
In Memoriam: John Miclot
We at the NFFF and the FRCE extend our deepest sympathies to John’s family and friends and express our gratitude for the impact he made on firefighter health and safety.
Senate Judiciary Committee Passes Bi-Partisan Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act
On May 15th, the Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously passed S. 237, the Honoring Our Fallen Heros Act. The legislation, introduced by Senator Amy Klobuchar (MN) and Senator Kevin Cramer (ND), expands the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program to line-of-duty deaths and permanent disabilities that occur because of certain cancers.
Ronald J. Siarnicki Awarded Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Emeritus
Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) is pleased to announce that Ronald J. Siarnicki has been awarded the prestigious Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Emeritus designation on May 6, 2025. The Emeritus Designation Committee, impressed by Chief Siarnicki’s lifelong commitment and achievements, didn’t hesitate to give their full support to this recommendation. Throughout his career, Ron […]
2025 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend Events Moved Under Cover
Because of the weather forecast, both the Candlelight Service on Saturday, May 3rd at 7:30 pm and the National Memorial Service on Sunday, May 4th at 10:00 am will now take place under a tent at the National Emergency Training Center, where the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial is located.
