September 21, 2004

On October 1, 2004, Touchstone Pictures is releasing their new film "Ladder 49." The movie tells the story of the crew of Engine Company 33 and Ladder 49 who share quarters in the Baltimore City Fire Department. Coincidentally, the movie's release on October 1st falls on the very weekend that the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation is holding the annual National Memorial Service - a tribute to those brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities in 2003. Each year, the Foundation conducts the National Memorial Service on the campus of the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg where the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial and National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Park are located.

We encourage you to take the time to see this powerful movie. The emotions you experience as you witness the commitment a firefighter has to his family at home, and the brotherly bond between the men in the firehouse, are overpowering. The reality of this risky and demanding job is brought to life as you watch seemingly ordinary men bravely put their lives on the line each and every day. This movie truly captures the life of a firefighter and his love for the job.

The Foundation is asking the assistance of every firefighter in America to utilize this movie's release to bring awareness to the dangerous work firefighting involves. In America, a firefighter dies in the line of duty every 80 hours. Unfortunately, over 100 families experience the loss of a loved one every year in our country. You can do something to harness the emotion the movie generates to help these survivors. Show your support for our programs and services by helping us provide the vital resources we need to do all of the good work that is required to help these families rebuild their lives.

You can choose to do something individually or as an official department function. We suggest you consider reaching out to your local movie theater and organizing a "Fill the Boot" campaign as movie goers return home from seeing this powerful film. You might want to use this Ladder 49 flyer to assist in your efforts. The Foundation depends upon donations to carry out its work and can only do it with your help. Do your part to help us help others. For more information about the Foundation's programs and services, contact us at (301) 447-1365 or visit our Web site at www.firehero.org.