KC Reporter

Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri State Capitol dome will be illuminated in red from sunset on October 5 to sunrise on October 6, 2024. This gesture is in honor of Missouri's fallen firefighters.

The lighting event aligns with the state's annual memorial services for firefighters at the Fire Fighters Memorial in Kingdom City. Governor Parson has declared October 6 as Fire Service Memorial Day in Missouri. The Fire Fighters Memorial Foundation of Missouri plans a candlelight vigil at the memorial for all deceased firefighters on October 5 at 7 p.m. A memorial service will follow on October 6 at 10:30 a.m., honoring Missouri firefighters recently recognized by the foundation board as having died in the line of duty.

Governor Parson stated, “Since the early 1800s, more than 400 Missourians across our state have paid the ultimate price for their commitment to serve as firefighters.” He added, “These courageous firefighters came from many backgrounds and served across different eras, but they shared an unflinching determination to protect lives and property, even when it meant putting their own lives on the line. It is our honor to light the State Capitol dome red in grateful remembrance of these heroes’ service to Missouri.”

State Fire Marshal Tim Bean expressed hope that "when people see the Capitol Dome lighted red on Saturday night, they think of the members of Missouri’s fire service who died in the line of duty to save lives and protect property." He emphasized that "our fallen brothers and sisters, no matter when they served, represent the highest ideals of the fire service – courage under fire, selfless service, and unfailing commitment to others – and they will never be forgotten."

Images of the Capitol illuminated in red will be available on Governor Parson’s Flickr page.

The Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri is situated at 5550 Dunn Drive, Kingdom City.