Across the country on Sunday, flags will be lowered to half-staff on all federal buildings to memorialize fallen firefighters. State and local authorities also are joining in the observance.

The Valley Regional Fire Authority will be participating in the observance, remembering firefighters who have perished in the line of duty.

“This allows us a chance to reflect upon the brave men and women who died protecting their communities and remember the sacrifices that are part of our chosen profession,” said Assistant Fire Chief Michael Gerber.

The VRFA encourages businesses and homeowners to participate by lowering their flags to half-staff.

President Bush approved legislation requiring the U.S. flag to be lowered to half-staff to memorialize fallen firefighters on Oct. 16, 2001. Public Law 107-51 requires this action to occur annually in conjunction with observance of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service.