U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Amy Klobuchar, Lisa Murkowski, and Gary Peters introduced the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Coin Act on Mar. 11. The bipartisan legislation would authorize a commemorative coin program to honor firefighters who have died in the line of duty, with proceeds supporting the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). If passed, the U.S. Mint would begin issuing these coins in 2029.
The proposed legislation aims to recognize the sacrifices made by firefighters and provide ongoing support for their families through programs funded by coin sales. The initiative is intended to help ensure that those who have lost their lives serving communities are remembered and that their families receive needed assistance.
“The bravery and selflessness of firefighters who risk their lives responding to emergencies in communities across our nation cannot be overstated,” said Senator Collins. “When firefighters make the ultimate sacrifice, the loss is felt by families, fellow firefighters, and entire communities. This commemorative coin program would honor those who gave their lives in service of others while supporting the important work of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the families they serve.”
Senator Klobuchar said, “Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. When they make the ultimate sacrifice, their families, fellow first responders, and entire communities feel that loss deeply. This bipartisan National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Coin Act is a meaningful way to honor those heroes who gave everything in service to others.”
Senator Murkowski added her support: “From our wildland firefighters fending off blazes that threaten entire regions to the volunteer departments that often serve as the only line of defense for small communities, Alaskans owe so much to our firefighters, especially those who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. I am honored to help commemorate their service and sacrifice while supporting the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s mission.”
Senator Peters said, “Every day, firefighters in Michigan and across the nation selflessly put their lives on the line to protect our communities. When a firefighter makes the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, this loss is felt deeply by family, friends, and the communities they served. I am proud to help lead this bipartisan bill to commemorate these brave men and women, while supporting the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s mission to preserve the legacy of these Americans for generations to come.”
Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of NFFF said: “We are extremely grateful to Senators Collins, Klobuchar, Murkowski, and Peters for introducing the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Coin Act. Their unwavering commitment over the years to our nation’s fire service, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and our Fire Hero Families has been impactful. The commemorative coin will help ensure the NFFF continues to have resources needed to honor fallen [firefighters], serve their families and colleagues, and maintain our efforts to prevent line-of-duty deaths.”
Michael Robitaille, Fire Chief of Yarmouth (Maine), said: “The proposed commemorative coin program would provide critical funding… Importantly proceeds would also benefit families of Maine’s fallen firefighters… As a United States Senator representing Maine Senator Collins’ leadership on this issue means a great deal… Thank you for your consideration…and for sponsoring this important legislation.”
Lisa Burton from Castine (Maine) said: “As a Maine resident and an advocate for NFFF I have seen firsthand how deeply these families…are affected when a firefighter makes [the] ultimate sacrifice… Thank you Senator Collins for your continued leadership on behalf of Maine and our nation’s firefighters.”
The bill directs production of limited-edition $5 gold coins as well as $1 silver coins and half-dollar clad coins recognizing America’s fallen firefighters; proceeds will benefit NFFF programs including counseling resources scholarships survivor networks death support services annual memorials.
Congress established NFFF in 1992; as this year marks 25 years since September 11 attacks—the act also honors sacrifices made by New York City fire department members during rescue efforts after those events.
