101 firefighters who died honored

EMMITSBURG, Md., Oct. 8 (UPI) -- The 24th Annual National Memorial Weekend honoring firefighters who died in the line of duty began Saturday at National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Md.

A series of events over the weekend was presented by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Fire Administration. Thousands participate in the yearly event.

Government officials, members of the fire service and family members honor the memories of the 101 U.S. firefighters who perished while serving their communities in 2004 -- 95 men and six women from 34 states.

A National Candlelight Service was held at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, in Emmitsburg, Md.

The National Memorial Service is scheduled for 10 a.m. at the National Fire Academy. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff is scheduled to speak Sunday.