The historic National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Chapel was re-dedicated to the memory of Chief A. Marvin Gibbons of the Maryland State Firemen's Association on Tuesday, August 1, 2006. Chief Gibbons was instrumental in establishing the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial and played a prominent role in the annual Memorial Service until his death. His wife, Mary Ann, also assisted with the Memorial Service and is a member of the Foundation's Board of Directors. A portrait of Chief Gibbons was unveiled during the ceremony.

The re-dedication was the culmination of a complete renovation and restoration of the Chapel's interior which was undertaken by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. The renovation created offices for Foundation staff and a conference area in the choir loft, and took nearly two years to complete.

The interior was modernized with a fire suppression system, an elevator, and restroom facility. Consultation with Sister Betty Ann McNeil of the Daughters of Charity ensured that the historical integrity of the sanctuary was maintained. New paint and carpeting, restoration of the ceiling frescoes, and repair of the beautiful stained glass windows enhance the peaceful serenity of the nave.

The renovations, completed by local contractor S&W Construction, totaled more than $1 million, and were made possible by the generosity of both corporations and individuals. The Lowe's Foundation donated $150,000. Road Sprinklers Fitters Local 669 provided free labor to install the sprinkler system. The elevator was donated by Otis Elevator. Items to complete the sprinkler system were donated by the Chesapeake Fire Sprinkler Association, and Mrs. Gibbons donated ceiling tiles and funds to complete the project.

During the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, the Chapel will serve as a place of reflection. While Honor Guard stand in silent vigil, families and friends of fallen firefighters will light candles in remembrance of their loved ones and place a rose in the Maltese Cross on the altar.

» More: About the Memorial Chapel
» Also: About Chief A. Marvin Gibbons