Missouri to light the capitol dome red in honor fallen firefighters

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – On behalf of Governor Mike Parson and serving in his capacity as Acting Governor, Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome lighted red from sunset on Saturday, October 7, until sunrise on Sunday, October 8, 2023, in honor of Missouri’s fallen firefighters.

The lighting coincides with Missouri’s annual memorial services for firefighters at the Fire Fighters Memorial in Kingdom City. Governor Mike Parson has proclaimed October 8 as Fire Service Memorial Day in Missouri. The Fire Fighters Memorial Foundation of Missouri will hold a candlelight vigil at the memorial for all deceased firefighters on Saturday, October 7, beginning at 7 p.m. On Sunday, October 8, beginning at 10:30 a.m., a memorial service will be held at the memorial in honor of Missouri firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2022.

“We are proud to light the Missouri State Capitol red in honor of the fire service heroes who gave their lives in service to their communities,” Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe said. “We owe a tremendous debt to the firefighters who respond each time the alarm bell sounds, no matter the danger they may encounter. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

“The fire service is based on traditions and trust,” State Fire Marshal Tim Bean said. “Tradition means upholding the standards of honorable, selfless service set by all those who came before us. Trust means knowing that we can depend on our fellow firefighters as we work together during the most adverse conditions. The lighting of the Capitol Dome red has now become a tradition for the fire service in Missouri. It is a beacon that calls attention to the brave, honorable service of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”