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Orgo-Life the new way to the future Advertising by AdpathwayThe National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s new film features firefighters from New York, Idaho and Massachusetts reflecting on the uncertainty, challenges and lasting lessons of the pandemic
March 12, 2026 05:00 AM •
EMMITSBURG, Md. — The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation has released a new documentary, “COVID: Coast to Coast,” featuring interviews with first responders about their experiences during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.
The filmmakers interviewed personnel from fire departments in New York City, Boise, Idaho, and West Barnstable, Massachusetts. In conversations conducted in 2024, those frontline workers and first responders described the uncertainty, fear and rapid changes that marked the early days of the pandemic, the NFFF said in a press release.
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The film highlights the professional and personal toll of COVID-19, showing how firefighters navigated changing health guidance, equipment shortages, misinformation and the emotional strain of loss at work and at home.
With no playbook to follow, fire service leaders adapted in real-time, a lesson that continues to shape training, resourcing and response efforts today.
“The pandemic tested our firefighters in ways we could never have anticipated. ‘COVID: Coast to Coast’ captures the hardship, resilience, and strength of our nation’s firefighters during one of the most uncertain times for all of us,” National Fallen Firefighters Foundation CEO Victor Stagnaro said. “Our bravest were on the ground, every day, witnessing the devastating impact COVID-19 had on their communities. But through their unwavering commitment, they came out on the other side stronger than before.”
“COVID: Coast to Coast” was produced by Cool Water LLC with funding support from the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.
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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at [email protected].
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