October 7, 2011
Ring the Bells! Ring the Bells! Ring the Bells!
Wouldn’t it be amazing if the churches in our country were united in a moment of honor, tradition and remembrance over something good, true and of significance for our nation’s fire service? I received information about just such a moment, a free, accessible way of standing up together for something good, and would like to share this opportunity with you.
For the first time in the 30-year history of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend the bells of the Memorial Chapel will ring on Sunday, October 16 to honor the fallen. As part of this tribute, fire departments and places of worship & other community organizations will join the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation for Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters, the first nation-wide remembrance for firefighters who died in the line of duty. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation created www.BellsAcrossAmerica.com which explains the program.
The idea for Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters was created by Colonel Bob Ditch, USAF, Retired, EdD (c), EFO/CFO, a fifth generation firefighter who has served in eight fire service agencies in five states over the last 36 years.
"When a firefighter dies in the line of duty, the sadness resonates through an entire community. Through Bells Across America for Fallen Firefighters, everyone across the country has the opportunity to pay tribute to the lives of these brave men and women who willingly take risks to protect and serve their communities," said Chief Ronald J. Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
I hope that you will pass this word quickly, as the time is short. October 16th is just around the corner. Ring your church bells – or any bell for that matter! Be a part of this great tribute on October 16th! Our nation’s heroes in the fire service will never be forgotten as long as we keep ringing the bell!
Sincerely,
Jennie Swanson
Chaplain
