Federal funding lapse closes National Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Maryland

Todd Karpovich, The Baltimore Sun on Apr 10, 2026

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BALTIMORE — A federal funding lapse has forced the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial to close just weeks before hundreds of families are expected to gather to honor loved ones who died in the line of duty.

The memorial, located on the campus of the National Emergency Training Center, is closed to the public because of the funding disruption affecting the Department of Homeland Security, according to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

In a statement, foundation CEO Victor Stagnaro said the timing is especially painful as families prepare for the annual Memorial Weekend, when new names are added to the monument.

“In less than a month, the names of 204 fallen firefighters from 43 states will be added to that sacred monument in Emmitsburg,” Stagnaro said. “These families, who are grieving and have already made untold sacrifices, should be able to stand where their loved ones are recognized by our nation.”

Officials with Homeland Security could not be reached for comment.

The 45th National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend is scheduled for May 2–3. For many relatives traveling to Maryland, the visit represents their only opportunity to see the names of spouses, parents, or grandparents honored at the site, foundation officials said.

Congress established the memorial to ensure national recognition of firefighters who die in the line of duty. The foundation is urging federal leaders to resolve the funding issue in time to reopen the site before the ceremonies.

“Families … should be able to visit the memorial,” Stagnaro said, adding that access to the grounds “matters deeply” to those making the trip.

The Emmitsburg campus also houses the United States Fire Administration and the National Fire Academy, both of which are affected by the closure.

Foundation officials said they remain committed to holding the Memorial Day weekend events with “dignity and reverence,” even as uncertainty persists about public access to the grounds.

The nonprofit, established by Congress in 1992, leads national efforts to honor fallen firefighters and support their families. It has also called on policymakers to act quickly to ensure the site reopens, preserving what Stagnaro described as a promise to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

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