As we prepare for Memorial Weekend 2022 in October we’re looking ahead to next year and the start of a new National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) tradition. Beginning in 2023 Memorial Weekend moves to May.
A combination of weather uncertainties and the frequent threat of an October federal government shutdown is behind the move of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend from its traditional October date. NFFF Board chairman Troy Markel said, “As with everything NFFF does, the priority is making sure we do right by the families of the firefighters we’re honoring.”
This move does not impact this year’s ceremony. The 2022 Memorial Weekend is still scheduled for October 8 and 9.
The change means 2023 Memorial Weekend will be May 6 and 7. While the time of year for the Candlelight and Memorial Services changes, our other four decades long traditions will continue. Chairman Markel said, “Removing some of the uncertainties we’ve faced with the October date will help avoid distractions as we focus on honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
