GOING TO FDIC 2026

It’s “that” time again, where the pilgrimage to Indianapolis (Cincinnati before that and Memphis before that with one year in KC) occurs….with nothing but opportunity to learn from so many, as well as visiting the exhibits. My first was in 1977 and have never missed one. It has always been a great mix of what FDIC has to offer, but also meeting the people attending.

After all, when you meet the Firefighters from East Grievanceville, or West Smoothboretown, you discover your department is actually a pretty good place to be, compared to them-or not-but regardless, it’s a chance to learn well beyond the borders of your fire district. So much of the learning occurs in and outside the classrooms.

If you are traveling by vehicle into Indy from the East, literally right off I-70 is an outstanding BBQ “1920” firehouse themed restaurant owned by a family of Firefighters that you’ll love: I-70 exit 29 north 1000′ to COMPANY 7 BBQ: https://www.company7bbq.com/

The Whelen FDIC $100,000.00 Challenge (AND The NASCAR Racecar)

Whelen is using FDIC to boost fundraising efforts for the NFFF. At FDIC, Whelen is matching all donations made via a specially designated QR code, up to $50,000, to raise $100,000 for the NFFF next week alone. This matching campaign doubles the impact of individual contributions…..

DETAILS: https://www.firehero.org/whelen-challenge/

OR Stop By WHELEN’s Booth at FDIC #3219

FDIC attendees can also see the Whelen NASCAR racecar in Whelen’s booth (No. 3219).

If you cannot make it to FDIC International 2026, you can still contribute by visiting https://www.firehero.org/whelen-challenge/ If you’re at the show, look for the QR code at Whelen’s booth (3219) of the NFFF booth (8828) in Lucas Oil Stadium.

Thanks to so many of you, the book is doing wonderfully, which means thousands of dollars in royalties to The Chief Ray Downey Scholarship, The Firefighter Cancer Support Network, The Tunnels to Towers Foundation, and The First Responder Center of Excellence

In addition to our “30 FIRES” workshop on Tuesday afternoon, Frank and I will be at the Fire Engineering Bookstore signings on Thursday, 4/23, from 1100-1300 hours. Please come by and purchase a copy, or if you already have, come by anyway and say hi.

2026 FDIC FCSN 5 Alarm 5K Run to Remember

DETAILS: https://www.firefightercancersupport.org/5-alarm-5k

The Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated launch of the 5th annual FCSN 5 Alarm 5K Run to Remember! This event takes place on Thursday, April 23, in Indianapolis’ White River State Park, during FDIC International.

The run/walk begins at 6:00pm, and is open to participants of all levels and backgrounds! It offers a flat, fast, and closed course that winds around the scenic Indianapolis Canal, and gives you the option to be timed. Register by Thursday, March 19 to be guaranteed an incredible, high-quality shirt! There will also be a commemorative coin given out to our First 500 registrants! Those not inclined to run can contribute or sponsor a team or runner via the “Donate” page on the website.

DETAILS: https://www.firehero.org/a-night-of-honor/

Join the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation for A Night of Honor: When the World Stopped, They Stood—an unforgettable evening dedicated to honoring the courage, leadership, and sacrifice of the fire service on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11. This powerful event brings the fire service community together to remember those who answered the call when it mattered most and to recommit ourselves to supporting the families they left behind. Please plan on attending!

Thursday, April 23, 2026, The Indiana Roof Ballroom, 140 West Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204

DETAILS: https://www.firehero.org/a-night-of-honor/