Bismarck  – Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Sunday, Oct. 6, and encourages North Dakotans to do the same at their homes and businesses, in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service.

The governor’s directive is in accordance with North Dakota law and a proclamation issued today by President Donald Trump, who proclaimed Oct. 6-12 as Fire Prevention Week. The President has called on Americans to participate in the observance with appropriate programs and activities and by renewing their efforts to prevent fires and their tragic consequences.

Burgum also has proclaimed Oct. 5-6 as Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in North Dakota, stating, “North Dakotans extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude to the volunteer and career firefighters whose bravery, dedication and sacrifice protect our families and communities.” The full proclamation can be viewed here.

 

Congress has created the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to remember America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the tax-exempt, nonprofit Foundation has developed and expanded programs to honor our fallen fire heroes and assist their families and coworkers.

The 38th National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service will be held Sunday, October 6, 2019, to honor 92 firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2018 and 27 firefighters who died in the line of duty in previous years.

In accordance to Public Law 107-51, the American flag should be lowered to half-staff on Sunday, October 6, 2019 from sunrise to sunset in observance of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service.