EMMITSBURG, MARYLAND — The name of William J. “B.J.” McCale, a dedicated firefighter/EMT with Vermilion Township Fire Department, now stands among America’s honored fire service heroes.
McCale, who passed away at age 50 following a cardiac emergency during a training session in 2023, was formally honored during the 44th Annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, held May 3–4, 2025, in Emmitsburg, Maryland. His name was called during the solemn Role of Honor ceremony, joining 139 others recognized for their service and sacrifice.
As his name was read at timestamp 1:50:17 in the national memorial broadcast, a presenter stated:
“William J. B.J. McCale, Vermilion Township Fire and Rescue Department. You guys can come up. On behalf of a grateful nation, I present these gifts to your family.”
McCale’s family was presented with a memorial badge, a red rose, and an American flag flown over the U.S. Capitol and the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. These symbolic gifts serve as a lasting tribute to his life, service, and the sacrifice made by his loved ones.
A Weekend of National Honor and Support
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), created by Congress in 1992, organizes the annual memorial to honor fallen firefighters and support their families through remembrance, connection, and healing. Events throughout the weekend included a Candlelight Service, the National Memorial Ceremony, and the participation of honor guards, pipers, and drummers from across the country.
This year’s ceremony recognized 70 firefighters lost in 2024 and 70 others from previous years, including McCale. The Foundation’s campus in Emmitsburg, also home to the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Academy, hosted families from every state — each with their own story of loss, courage, and remembrance.
Fire departments across the country took part in solidarity tributes like “Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters” and “Bells Across America”, while national and local leaders offered prayers, proclamations, and moments of silence.
Vermilion Township Fire Chief Frank Triana and former Chief Chris Stempowski attended the ceremony, supporting the McCale family. Chief Triana coordinated with the Local Assistance State Team (LAST) to ensure the family was supported every step of the way.
“I mean, the whole thing was very moving, very emotional. And just to be able to be there for the family is truly an honor,” said Chief Triana.
“To me, that’s what it’s all about. It’s about the family. We lost a great guy. A lot of departments lost a guy. We lost a lot of great people. So anything we can do to help them through this troubling time is paramount. We need to be there for them. And a lot of people, as you can see there, a lot of people were there too.”
Remembering “Bill”
Known to many simply as “Bill,” McCale served with both the Vermilion Township and City of Vermilion fire departments during his career. He was a former Chief Engineer, widely respected for his quiet leadership, mechanical skill, and unwavering commitment to the community.
His wife, Stephanie Stafford McCale, described the memorial weekend as emotionally overwhelming but supportive.
A Legacy Etched in Stone
McCale’s name is now engraved at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial, where it will be preserved for generations to come as a symbol of courage and service. For his family, fellow firefighters, and the community he served, his legacy continues — not just in stone, but in every act of duty that follows his example.
To view the full memorial service and explore more about the weekend’s events, visit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation official site:
🔗 firehero.org/events/memorial-weekend
