National EMS Memorial Service Set

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- EMS personnel from across the country are gathering here this weekend to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.

During the 19th annual National EMS Memorial Service on Saturday, the names of 43 responders will be added to the "Tree of Life."

More than 1,500 families and colleagues of the fallen heroes are expected to attend the annual memorial service, said Kevin Dillard, president.

In conjunction with the service, Dillard requests that agencies across the nation pause and participate in the annual moment of silence that will be held at 7:30 p.m. (MDT).

Those being honored include a number of medevac crews killed in helicopter crashes.

Dillard said a number of rescue squads and EMS companies have answered the call to sponsor a family, and contribute to their trip to the annual memorial service.

"The memorial service does pay for hotel and other expenses for the immediate families," Dillard said. "But, we depend on people or agencies to help out."

During the ceremony, families will receive a medallion symbolizing eternal memory; a U.S. Flag that has flown over the Nation's Capital, symbolizing service to the country; and a white rose symbolizing undying love.

In a prepared statement, Colorado Springs Mayor Steve Bach said: "Colorado Springs is honored to be the permanent home of this memorial that pays tribute to America's Emergency Medical Services providers who have given their lives in service to their communities."

"Colorado Springs has a long history of respect and honor for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice," he added.

The memorial service can be watched live on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET https://live.nemsms.org