National Fallen Firefighters Foundation outlines FDIC programme marking 25 years since 9/11
Iain Hoey
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FDIC programme highlights tribute events alongside operational training
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) will attend Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) International in Indianapolis from April 20 to 25, with a programme tied to the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
The Foundation announced it will host tribute events during the conference, including a memorial stair climb, an awards event and a fundraising campaign linked to Whelen Engineering.
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation CEO Victor Stagnaro said: “The courage, dedication, and leadership of our nation’s firefighters inspire us every day.
“The training at FDIC helps ensure today’s fire service is prepared with that same level of leadership when it is needed most. From the Night of Honor to the Whelen Challenge and the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, this week reflects our mission in action, honoring our fallen heroes, supporting their families, and working to prevent future tragedies.”
A Night of Honor: When the World Stopped, They Stood is scheduled for April 23 at 6 p.m., with tickets starting at $50.
The event will include an award ceremony for Fire Chiefs Terry Shaffer and Edward P. Plaugher, along with Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci Jr.
Shaffer led his department at the site of the United Airlines Flight 93 crash near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and Plaugher coordinated operations for the Pentagon response.
Ganci led his rescue operations team into the North Tower and died in the line of duty.
Stair climb and Whelen activities
The NFFF will also host a FDIC 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on Friday, April 24 at 1 p.m. at Lucas Oil Stadium.
Participants will climb or walk the equivalent of 110 stories in tribute to the 343 FDNY firefighters who died as a result of 9/11.
The first 343 participants who register online will receive a 25th anniversary 9/11 challenge coin.
Those who raise more than $110 will have the opportunity to receive commemorative gifts.
The registration fee is $40 and online registration closes at midnight on April 23.
Attendees at FDIC International can also register on April 22 and 23 at the Indianapolis Convention Center.
Participants are encouraged to wear athletic gear and not wear full turnout gear.
Tribute car unveiling and donation match
The same announcement states that Whelen Engineering will unveil its 2026 No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet Camaro on April 23 at 12:00 p.m. at Booth #3219.
The car will carry the name of each Fire Hero being added to the National Fallen Firefighter Memorial this year.
Whelen Engineering has also pledged to match donations made to the NFFF up to $50,000 through the Whelen Challenge.
The campaign is intended to support fallen firefighters and their families, while funding programmes aimed at reducing line-of-duty deaths and injuries.
The Indianapolis programme brings together commemoration, fundraising and public tribute during the week of FDIC International.