The MSP Airport Fire Department Honor Guard recently attended the National Firefighter Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, Maryland, held from May 2nd through 5th, 2025. This occasion marked the first time MSP Airport Fire has sent members to this national event. The memorial held particular significance this year, as Burnsville Minnesota Firefighter Adam Finseth was one of 140 Firefighters who were honored added to the memorial.

A four-member team from the MSP Airport Fire Honor Guard undertook several key assignments during the weekend. On Saturday night, they escorted families of fallen firefighters during the candlelight vigil. On Sunday, the team had the honor of carrying and presenting flags for four North Carolina firefighters who had died in the line of duty. As not all fire departments are able to send their own Honor Guard, the Airport Fire team participation played an important role, ensuring these fallen heroes were respectfully represented.

Each American flag carried by the team had been flown over the U.S. Capitol and the
National Firefighter Memorial before being carefully folded and presented to the
respective families.

The team felt honored to attend and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The experience was impactful, not only for the families of the fallen but also for the many others who gathered to pay their respects. The MSP Airport Fire Honor Guard hopes to return for future memorial weekends, aiming to make their participation an annual tradition.

Pictured above from left to right are Captain R. Corey, Firefighter D. Blundetto, Driver D. Dodge, and Firefighter J. Ross.