“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected virtually every aspect of life including efforts by our organizations who remain dedicated to honoring EMS personnel for their service and especially for those who have died in the line of duty,” NEMSMS President Jana Williams said in a statement. “While this ruthless virus keeps us physically apart, we can still join together to make sure our fallen and their families receive the acknowledgment they deserve.”
The Moment of Silence normally coincides with the annual National EMS Memorial Service which was postponed until next year due to COVID-19 precautions. Williams continued, “With deep respect for the honorees and first responders who remain on the front lines, the National EMS Moment of Silence takes on greater importance as a meaningful reminder that the fallen will not be forgotten. It is a touchless, responsible, yet impactful means to pause and remember without taking away from the necessary work at hand.”
This endeavor provides an opportunity for anyone to honor and remember first responders and especially those EMS providers who have given their lives in the line of duty. It is also a way for the families and EMS colleagues of the fallen to feel the support of our nation. Normally during the Service, at a specified time, the screens fade to black and a simple message informs family members and other attendees that across the country radios are simultaneously broadcasting the message:
| 18:04:50 PM | “All units please stand by for a special message… |
| 18:04:55 | “Attention all units… |
In conjunction with first responders across the nation and in recognition of the National EMS Memorial Service – an event that would be occurring now, but is postponed until next year due to continued COVID-19 efforts, this agency will observe a moment of radio silence in honor of our nation’s Emergency Medical Services providers who have made the Ultimate Sacrifice, and given their lives in the line of duty. The fallen are not forgotten. We also pause in honor of those who continue to serve. Your commitment and sacrifice defy words and inspire us all.
Please stand by unless you have emergency traffic.
| 18:05:00 | [Begin Moment of Silence] |
| 18:05:20 | “This concludes the moment of silence. Thank you. Please resume normal radio traffic.” |