06/06/2026
Today was powerful.
Today, we paused to remember 8 first responders across the Commonwealth who gave their lives in the line of the duty. The 29th Annual Virginia Fallen Firefighters and EMS Memorial Service was a reminder of the selflessness and bravery of first responders every day. May these 8 men continue to rest in peace.
2026 Honorees
Leonard J. Archer, Richmond Fire Department
William K. Carter, Newport News Fire Department
Jeremy L. Compton, Christiansburg Volunteer Department
Christopher S. Jones, Portsmouth Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services
Barry W. Maham, Jr., Fairfax County Fire and Rescue
Robert E. Talbott, Chesterfield Fire and EMS
David A. Thurston, Abingdon Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Steve A. Weikle, Boiling Springs Fire and Rescue
If you’d like to rewatch the ceremony, you can do that here: https://bit.ly/4g0zkwG