07/18/2026
Did You Know?
The National EMS Memorial Service has its roots right here in Virginia.
In 1991, members of what is now the Virginia Association of First Responders (VAFR) recognized that while our nation's firefighters and law enforcement officers had national memorials, there was no national service to honor EMS professionals who made the ultimate sacrifice. Determined to change that, the organization held the first National EMS Memorial Service in 1992, honoring six fallen EMS providers from across the country.
One of the driving forces behind that vision was Kevin Dillard, whose leadership helped transform the memorial from a Virginia initiative into the official National EMS Memorial Service recognized by Congress. More than three decades later, his vision continues to ensure that America's fallen EMS heroes are never forgotten.
Today, as the National EMS Memorial Service continues its mission of honoring those who gave everything in service to others, VAFR is proud of the role our organization played in creating this lasting national tribute.
Today at approximately 6:00 PM Eastern, EMS agencies across the country are encouraged to participate in the National EMS Moment of Silence. Whether you gather around your station flagpole, observe a minute of radio silence, or simply pause wherever you are, take a moment to remember the EMS providers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Please join the National EMS Memorial Service by participating in the National EMS Moment of Silence and help ensure that our fallen EMS heroes are never forgotten.
