Twelve first responders honored at Virginia Fallen Heroes Memorial Ceremony

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Flags flew at half-staff, and the sound of bagpipes echoed through the air, while a solemn crowd gathered in silence to honor Virginia’s fallen first responders.

This year’s Virginia Fallen Heroes Memorial Service, held on Saturday, June 7, brought together fire officials, families and community members from across the Commonwealth to remember the lives and legacies of 12 individuals who dedicated themselves to public service.

The ceremony, held annually, recognizes firefighters, EMS personnel and forestry workers who have died either in the line of duty or after years of committed service. Among those honored this year were first responders from Richmond, Lynchburg, Virginia Beach and other communities across the state.

“We gather here today, but I need to be very clear that we cannot fully comprehend your sorrow,” Gov. Glenn Youngkin said. “Nor can we shoulder the immense sacrifice you have borne as you've said goodbye to your loved one.”

Youngkin also addressed the audience, emphasizing the deep, collective sacrifice made by each fallen hero and their families.

“The commitment and sacrifice that every single first responder hero makes is never an individual commitment,” Youngkin said. “It’s a shared sacrifice made by husbands and by wives, by parents and grandchildren, by friends, by children, by sisters and brothers.”

This year’s honorees included firefighters, captains and logistics technicians, who were each remembered not only for their service but for the lives they saved and the values they embodied. Their names were formally added to Virginia’s Public Safety Memorial.

“There are Virginians who are alive today because of these 12 extraordinary men,” Youngkin said. “Because of the values that are not only represented, but lived.”

The ceremony concluded with the traditional tolling of the bell -- a symbolic gesture dating back more than a century to honor fallen firefighters -- and the reading of the poem “A Hero’s Welcome.”

“You have not failed your brothers. You clearly gave it your all,” said Daniel Brooks of the Virginia Department of Forestry. “And through your selfless actions, others will hear the call.”

The memorial served as a powerful reminder of the courage, commitment and sacrifice made by those who protect and serve -- and the loved ones who carry on their legacy.