Firefighters who died in the line of duty are being memorialized this weekend in a national event.
Five of the 229 firefighters being honored are from North Carolina, and two are local to the Greater Charlotte area.
Held by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, the 43rd Memorial Weekend in Maryland features a candlelight service and memorial service.
READ MORE: Procession held for fallen deputy US Marshal Thomas Weeks
“National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend is a time for our nation to pause and reflect on the heroic efforts and selfless service of the fallen firefighters we are paying tribute to this year,” said NFFF CEO Victor Stagnaro. “We will always remember the bravery, commitment, and sacrifices of each of these 226 heroes—and their families.”
Ricky D. Allen was 36 when he died in the line of duty, working as an engineer for the Conover Fire Department. He started as a junior firefighter at 17 and served for 19 years before dying in March 2023 from bile duct cancer resulting from his work.