In 2022, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation became the permanent home for one of these memorial bells. It is now known as the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Bell of Remembrance.
Earlier this year, Brother Schlatter delivered this poignant and meaningful gift to the Foundation, with the intent that it carry on as a lasting tribute to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. A special location on the campus of the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg was selected, directly across from the 9/11 To Lift A Nation Memorial. The Bell was rung on campus for the very first time during National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. It’s a new tradition that will take place each year as we honor remember the fallen.

Brother David Schlatter, O.F.M.
Franciscan Priest
Walter Reed National Military Medical Center
As we look toward “ringing in the New Year,” we ask that our nation pause and remember those we have lost—this year and in previous years—as they worked to protect us. We remember their families, their colleagues, and their organizations. We continue to support them as we also work to prevent future firefighter death and injury.