rwinfrey, Author at Virginia Department of Fire Programs

The 2024 Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service

About the 2024 Memorial Service

The 27th annual Virginia Fallen Firefighters & Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Richmond International Raceway Complex, Main Exhibition Hall. This event is open to the public.

The Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service will be streamed live for those who cannot attend in person.

This year's Memorial Service will honor fallen firefighters who have been recognized under the Virginia Line of Duty Act in 2023 for their bravery and dedication to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

2024 Honorees

Larry W. Akers - Longshop-McCoy Fire and Rescue
James M. Alexander Jr. - Hanover County Fire-EMS
James E. Brewster - D.A.D Volunteer Fire Department
Ernest N. Cash - Monelison Volunteer Fire Department
Matthew R. Chiaverotti - Virginia Beach Fire Department
Cameron B. Craig - Abingdon Fire Department
Mia Ethridge - Louisa County Fire and EMS
James A. Foster - Rice Volunteer Fire Department
Brian R. Hricik - Alexandria Fire Department
Helen "Gracey" C. Humbert - Botetourt County Fire and EMS
Chester T. Lauck - Frederick County Fire and Rescue
William A. McFarland - Richmond Department of Fire and Emergency Services
Gregory C. Meinel - Vinton First Aid Crew
Alicia A. Monahan - Chesterfield County Fire and EMS
Rory "Bud" C. Swanson - Lower King and Queen Volunteer Fire Department
Stephen D. Whitson - Henrico County Division of Fire
Rocky S. Wood - Virginia Department of Forestry

Live Stream Information and Digital Program Access

Click here to watch the recording of the service on YouTube

Main Point of Contact:
For more information on the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact VDFP PIO Will Merritt at (804) 249-1986 or william.merritt@vdfp.virginia.gov.

About the Memorial Service

The Memorial Service will include a keynote address, a Virginia Fire Services Honor Guard procession, a musical performance, and a fire and EMS apparatus display from departments throughout the Commonwealth. State flags will be presented to the families of the fallen.

History of the Memorial Service

The Virginia Fire Services Board established the Memorial Service and enlisted the services of a Memorial Service Committee to plan the annual event. The committee is comprised of representatives from fire departments, family representatives of fallen firefighters previously honored, the Office of Emergency Medical Services and the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Honor Guard from across the Commonwealth participate each year, as well as fire departments from across Virginia who display apparatus for the Memorial Service.
A reception immediately following the Memorial Service is open to the families, distinguished guests, and the public.

Virginia Fallen Firefighter and EMS Facts

For more than 20 years, on the first Saturday in June, firefighters and EMS personnel who have died in the line of duty or have been recognized by the Virginia Line of Duty Act in the previous year, are honored at the Virginia Fire and EMS Memorial Service.
With the completion and dedication of the Virginia Public Safety Memorial, names of firefighters who are honored may also be added to the wall of the memorial annually.

Contact Information

For more information about the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact VDFP PIO Will Merritt at (804) 249-1986 or william.merritt@vdfp.virginia.gov.

Guide to Fireworks in the Commonwealth

Many local jurisdictions prohibit the use of all fireworks. Check with your locality to determine any local regulations.

In accordance with Section §27-96.1 of the Code of Virginia, unless prohibited by a local ordinance, the provisions of the Statewide Fire Prevention Code pertaining to fireworks shall not apply to the sale of or to any person using, igniting, or exploding permissible fireworks on private property with the consent of the owner of such property.

The fireworks listed in the 2025 Virginia Permissible Fireworks List have been field tested to compare the items to the performance criteria of the American Fireworks Standards Laboratory (AFSL) and are classified as "permissible fireworks" for purposes of applying and enforcing the Statewide Fire Prevention Code. The requirements for the sale or use of other than permissible fireworks, including certification and permit requirements, can be found in Chapter 56 of the Statewide Fire Prevention Code.

CAUTION: Code of Virginia §27.97 allows local jurisdictions to adopt fire prevention regulations that are more restrictive or more extensive in scope than the Statewide Fire Prevention Code. Many local jurisdictions prohibit the use of all fireworks. Individuals should check with their city, county or town to determine any local regulations.

Click the graphics below to download and share on social media. Remember the only safe way to celebrate is by attending public displays. Leave fireworks to the professionals!

The Purpose of the Permissible Fireworks List

Each year countless Virginians are injured or worse due to fireworks. Pictured below is the State Fire Marshal's Office annual field testing of fireworks to compare the items to the performance criteria of the American Fireworks Standards Laboratory (AFSL) and are classified as "permissible fireworks" for purposes of applying and enforcing the Statewide Fire Prevention Code. These tests make sure only code compliant consumer grade fireworks are bought/sold in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Firework safety tips

The only safe way to view fireworks is by attending public displays and leaving the lighting of fireworks to the professionals.

Be Proactive

Purchase only legal fireworks available at approved stands. Never craft your own fireworks or combine multiple fireworks.
Keep a bucket of water nearby in which all used fireworks can be placed.
Know the laws for your specific locality as local jurisdictions may adopt fire prevention regulations that are more restrictive or extensive in scope than the Statewide Fire Prevention Code.

Be Safe While Using

Use eye protection, wear safety goggles.
Always read and follow the directions on the label.
Never point fireworks at people, pets, cars or buildings.
Do not use fireworks near tall dry grassy fields, combustible materials or wooded areas.
Do not use under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.

Disposal of Fireworks

After you finish — clean up all debris when finished. Duds (fireworks that didn't function) can be dangerous; if a device does not light or fire, an adult should wait at least 15 minutes, approach it carefully, and place it in a bucket of water.
Be sure all unused fireworks, matches and lighters are out of the sight and reach of children.
Dispose of fireworks properly. Soak them completely in water before putting them in the trash can.
Monitor the area for several hours after using fireworks.

The 2023 Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service

Watch the Live Stream Below!

Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service Live Stream

The 26th annual Virginia Fallen Firefighters & Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at the Richmond International Raceway Complex, Main Exhibition Hall. This event is open to the public.

The Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service will be streamed live for those who cannot attend in person.

This year's Memorial Service will honor fallen firefighters who have been recognized under the Virginia Line of Duty Act in 2022 for their bravery and dedication to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

2023 Honorees

Gary C. Campbell - Spotsylvania County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management
TyVaughn Eldridge - Chesterfield Fire and EMS
Christopher G. Griffin - City of Norfolk Fire Rescue
Robert W. Nelms - Fries Fire & Rescue
Jeffrey T. Rizzo - Loudoun County Fire Rescue
Kimberly A. Schoppa - Fairfax County Fire and Rescue
James A. Sturgill - Pound Volunteer Fire Department
Gregory V. Thomas - City of Danville Fire Department
Michael W. Webb - Callaway Volunteer Fire Department
Herbert T. Wilcox - Rocky Mount Fire Department

Honor Guard:

Individuals or departments interested in Honor Guard participation should contact Toby Martin at Tmartin@roanokecountyva.gov.

Sending Apparatus:

If your department is interested in sending apparatus to the Memorial Service, please contact Memorial Service Committee Member Floyd Greene at floydpowhatan@gmail.com.

Main Point of Contact:
For more information on the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact VDFP PIO Will Merritt at (804) 249-1986 or william.merritt@vdfp.virginia.gov.

About the 2023 Memorial Service

History of the Memorial Service

The Virginia Fire Services Board established the Memorial Service and enlisted the services of a Memorial Service Committee to plan the annual event. The committee is comprised of representatives from fire departments, family representatives of fallen firefighters previously honored, the Office of Emergency Medical Services and the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Honor Guard from across the Commonwealth participate each year, as well as fire departments from across Virginia who display apparatus for the Memorial Service.
A reception immediately following the Memorial Service is open to the families, distinguished guests, and the public.

Virginia Fallen Firefighter and EMS Facts

For more than 20 years, on the first Saturday in June, firefighters and EMS personnel who have died in the line of duty or have been recognized by the Virginia Line of Duty Act in the previous year, are honored at the Virginia Fire and EMS Memorial Service.
With the completion and dedication of the Virginia Public Safety Memorial, names of firefighters who are honored may also be added to the wall of the memorial annually.

Contact Information

For more information about the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact VDFP PIO Will Merritt at (804) 249-1986 or william.merritt@vdfp.virginia.gov.

2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards Nominations Open Through December 16, 2022

2022 Governor's Fire Service Awards Nominations Now Open

Nominations accepted until December 16, 2022

RICHMOND - November 1, 2022 - The Virginia Department of Fire Programs, a leader in enhancing public safety, in conjunction with the Virginia Fire Services Board, are seeking nominations for the 2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards, which honors and recognizes excellence in Fire Services in the Commonwealth.

The annual Governor’s Fire Service Awards is presented in eight categories during the Virginia Fire Rescue Conference held in February at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

Nominations can be submitted through an online form on the VDFP website through December 16, 2022.

About the Governor’s Fire Service Awards

The Governor’s Fire Service Awards were established in 2002. In partnership with the Virginia Fire Services Board, the VDFP facilitates the awards. The Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security presents the Governor with award recommendations, at which the final recipients are then selected. Award categories:

Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia Fire Service
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia Community Risk Reduction
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia’s Fire Service Training
Governor’s Award for Outstanding Fire Department Response
Governor’s Award for Private Sector Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Support
Governor’s Civilian Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Support
Governor’s Virginia Firefighter of the Year
Governor’s Virginia Fire Chief of the Year

Among the 2021 recipients were Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue High Threat Team and the Occoquan Woodbridge Lorton Volunteer Fire Department, who were recognized for Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Training and Outstanding Fire Department Response, respectively. Read more about the 2021 Governor's Fire Service awards recipients

About the Virginia Department of Fire Programs The Virginia Department of Fire Programs provides training, support services, and resources to more than 700 fire and emergency service organizations, and approximately 44,000 fire service personnel in the Commonwealth. Support areas include funding, professional development, research, operational support, technical assistance, and fire prevention inspections through its State Fire Marshal's Office.

Ken Brown Appointed Coordinator of Community Risk Reduction.

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs is excited to welcome Ken Brown who has been appointed by Governor Youngkin to serve as the Coordinator of Community Risk Reduction.

Ken retired from the position of Fire-Rescue Chief and Coordinator of Emergency Services for Goochland County Virginia after 33 years of career experience. Ken has a long career in the Virginia Fire Services, holding the previous positions as Director of Fire Services for Prince George County, Company Officer with the City of Newport News Fire Dept., and Fire Chief for the 909th CES Fire Dept. USAFR (Ret).

Ken is a certified Instructor IV and has been an adjunct with the Virginia Department of Fire Programs for 38 years. He is a proud graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officers Program.

Ken has been a member of many fire service organizations, including the Virginia State Firefighters Association, the Metro Chiefs Association, the Emergency Fleet Management Association, where he was the former President, Metro Regional Fire Investigation Task Force, and Virginia State Public Fire and Life Safety Coalition where he was the former Chairman. In 2003, he was appointed to the Virginia Fire Services Board and remained on the Board for ten years.

Currently, he is the State Director for the NVFC, serving as chairman of the Recruitment and Retention committee and Past President of the Virginia State Firefighters Association. Ken has been active in the volunteer fire service for 45 years and is currently an active member of Fire Company 4 of Goochland Fire Rescue.

Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service Scheduled for June 4

Annual service to be held in the Exhibition Hall at the Richmond Raceway Complex

RICHMOND – The Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) invites the public to attend the 2022 Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service on Saturday, June 4 at the Richmond Raceway Complex.

The memorial service will begin at noon in the Main Exhibition Hall. The Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service will be streamed live for those who cannot attend in person. Visit: 2022 Virginia Fire & EMS Memorial Service live stream - YouTube.

The service will honor four fallen firefighters:

Lyndell N. Woods – Fort Lewis Volunteer Fire Department
Lawrence J. Phipps, Sr. – Hanover Fire and EMS
Todd A. Landreth – Norfolk Airport Fire Department
Sean H. Land – Virginia Beach Fire Department

Now in its 25th year, the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service was established to honor firefighters and EMS personnel who perished in the line of duty, in accordance with the Virginia Line of Duty Act (§ 9.1-400).

Emergency response personnel, government officials, and public safety members gather to celebrate the courage and dedication of each honoree. The Memorial Service includes a keynote address, a Virginia Fire Services Honor Guard procession, a musical performance, and a fire and EMS apparatus display from departments throughout the Commonwealth.

2021 Governor’s Fire Service Awards Nominations Open Through December 31, 2021

2021 Governor’s Fire Service Awards Nominations Now Open

Nominations accepted until December 31, 2021

RICHMOND – November 3, 2021 – The Virginia Department of Fire Programs, a leader in enhancing public safety, in conjunction with the Virginia Fire Services Board, are seeking nominations for the 2021 Governor’s Fire Service Awards, which honors and recognizes excellence in Fire Services in the Commonwealth. The annual Governor’s Fire Service Awards is presented in eight categories during the Virginia Fire Rescue Conference held in February at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

About the Governor’s Fire Service Awards

Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia Fire Service
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia Community Risk Reduction
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia’s Fire Service Training
Governor’s Award for Outstanding Fire Department Response
Governor’s Award for Private Sector Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Support
Governor’s Civilian Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Support
Governor’s Virginia Firefighter of the Year
Governor’s Virginia Fire Chief of the Year

Among the 2020 recipients were Virginia Beach Fire Department and the City of Staunton Fire and Rescue, who were recognized for Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Training and Outstanding Fire Department Response, respectively. Read more about the 2020 Governor’s Fire Service awards recipients

About the Virginia Department of Fire Programs

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs provides training, support services, and resources to more than 700 fire and emergency service organizations, and approximately 44,000 fire service personnel in the Commonwealth. Support areas include funding, professional development, research, operational support, technical assistance, and fire prevention inspections through its State Fire Marshal’s Office.

VDFP Training and Operations Bends Its Learning Curve during the Pandemic

VDFP Now Accepting Course Requests from Localities Until Sept. 1

VDFP Now Accepting Course Requests from Localities Until Sept. 1

VDFP staff is currently working with our stakeholders to reschedule classes that were affected by the March – July shutdown. Additionally, we continue to plan for future VDFP funded deliveries to the more than 700 fire departments that exist in the Commonwealth.

Beginning August 15, 2020 and continuing until September 1, 2020, VDFP Division Chiefs will accept funded course requests from localities for the period of January 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022 (18-months). This extended time will enable VDFP and its stakeholders to be more efficient, allow for a reduction in cancelled classes, allow stakeholders to plan on attendance for future course offerings, and reduce duplicate course offerings in adjacent geographical areas.

Stakeholders who submit requests for January and February of 2021 will be notified of their request status by October 1, 2020.
Stakeholders submitting requests for the time frame of March 2021 – June 2022 will be notified of their request status by December 1, 2020.

Please make sure that your request is fully filled out to include requested dates as well as venue. VDFP staff will make every effort to accommodate training requests but may have to combine requests in adjacent areas of the Commonwealth.

Questions or comments should be directed to Bill MacKay, VDFP Chief of Training and Operations at william.mackay@vdfp.virginia.gov

Author: rwinfrey