President Donald Trump issued a proclamation late Thursday night to honor firefighters who died in the line of duty. The president officially declared May 3 through May 4 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.
“Day and night, firefighters are on the front lines, rushing into danger and risking their lives to protect fellow citizens,” read the proclamation. “Tragically, not every hero makes it home. The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, held in Emmitsburg, Maryland, commemorates the volunteer and professional firefighters who, over the past year, have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.”
“Thousands will gather to honor the lives and legacies of the fallen, to support the Fire Hero Families, to grieve and share memories, and to strengthen bonds between those who uniquely understand both the enduring pride and the profound loss of their loved ones,” Trump said. “Across the country, brave men and women demonstrate heroism each day, willingly placing themselves in harm’s way for the benefit of others. We are indebted to every American who chooses this noble profession — this solemn calling — in spite of the inherent risks.”
As part of the official proclamation, Trump acknowledged the sacrifice of Butler, Pennsylvania, firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was killed when a gunman tried to assassinate Trump at a campaign rally in July 2024. Comperatore died from stray bullets while he was shielding family members from gunfire.
Shortly after the assassination attempt, the Republican National Convention was held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Then-candidate Trump praised Comperatore for his bravery and courage and for giving the ultimate sacrifice to protect his loved ones.
“He lost his life selflessly acting as a human shield to protect them from flying bullets,” Trump said during the RNC Convention. “He went right over the top of them and was hit. What a fine man he was.”
Trump acknowledged Comperatore’s bravery and sacrifice once more in the proclamation.
“One firefighter will forever hold a profound place in my life — Corey Comperatore, who lost his life shielding his family from the barrage of assassin’s bullets that pierced the air during my rally last July in Butler, Pennsylvania,” Trump said. “His bravery and selflessness on that fateful day exemplify the dedication and courage that define America’s cadre of firefighters.”
Trump also recognized that firefighters were involved in some of the country’s most tragic events, when hundreds and thousands of strangers relied on firefighters’ bravery and courage. In his statement, he honored their heroism, sacrifices, and contributions in these “pivotal moments in American history.”
“There are pivotal moments in American history in which the awe-inspiring bravery and professionalism of firefighters stand forever imprinted on our memory,” Trump said.
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“On September 11, 2001, firefighters rushed into the smoke and flames of the twin towers following the horrific terrorist attacks,” said the president. “In January of this year, firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the fury of the deadly and destructive wildfires that raged through southern California. These phenomenal efforts make us proud and grateful for those who stand in the gap for our safety.”
“Firefighters often enter our lives only when something has gone catastrophically wrong, yet they stand ready every day to protect our people and communities,” Trump added. “This National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, we remember the American patriots who gave their lives in service to others and pray for the courageous families who carry on in their absence.”