Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396

09/11/2026

🇺🇸 NEVER FORGET — SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 🇺🇸

Today, on the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, the Professional Firefighters of Kokomo, IAFF Local 396, pause to remember one of the darkest days in our nation’s history.

Twenty-five years have passed, but we have not forgotten.

We remember the 343 FDNY firefighters who answered the call that morning and never returned home.

They climbed while others were coming down.

They carried their equipment up stairwell after stairwell, knowing the danger ahead of them. They went because people needed help. They went because their brothers were going. They went because that is what firefighters do.

343 firefighters. 343 families forever changed.

We remember every innocent life lost on September 11, 2001, and we honor the firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, military members, dispatchers, and countless others who responded that day and in the difficult days, months, and years that followed.

We also remember those who have since lost their lives from illnesses related to their service at Ground Zero.

To the members of Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396, thank you for continuing to answer the call and carrying forward the traditions of service, courage, sacrifice, and brotherhood that define the fire service.

And to our Local 396 families — thank you.

Thank you for every missed holiday, every interrupted meal, every sleepless night, and every time you watch your firefighter leave home knowing that you cannot control what the next alarm may bring. Your sacrifice is part of our service, too.

September 11 reminds us why the words brotherhood, service, duty, and sacrifice can never become just words.

May we continue to tell their stories.

May future generations understand what happened that morning.

May we always honor those who answered their final alarm.

25 YEARS LATER — WE STILL REMEMBER.

🇺🇸 343 — NEVER FORGOTTEN.
🇺🇸 SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 — NEVER FORGET.

Professional Firefighters of Kokomo
IAFF Local 396

Pride • Dedication • Loyalty • Determination

08/19/2026

The 9/11 Memorial Tribute Challenge events schedule. 25th anniversary! You do not have to do all the events. Pick one or do more and show your support. Go get signed up! We hope you show up and support this great event! Never Forget!

08/19/2026

This is an amazing event that supports our scholarship program while honoring the memory of the firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, first responders, military members, and innocent citizens who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

We invite our community to join us as we remember the courage, sacrifice, and selfless service displayed on that day. Together, we ensure that the legacy of those who gave everything is never forgotten.

Your participation not only helps support our scholarship program but also serves as a powerful reminder that we will always honor and remember the heroes and victims of September 11, 2001.

We Will Never Forget. 🇺🇸

The 9/11 Memorial Tribute Challenge is on Saturday September 12, 2026. It includes the following events: 5k Run/ Walk, 8:46am CrossFit Kokomo Hero Wod, 8:46am Planet Fitness 110 Floor Stair Climb (Climbing Machines), 9:59am CrossFit Kokomo Hero Wod, 11:30am CrossFit Kokomo Hero Wod, 9:25am Planet Fi...

07/04/2026

From all the members of the Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396. Happy July 4th! Have fun and stay safe!

07/03/2026

Today marks the end of an incredible career as Mike Barrett works his final shift with the Kokomo Fire Department after 36 years of dedicated service.

For more than three decades, Mike has answered the call with professionalism, courage, and an unwavering commitment to serving the citizens of Kokomo. Throughout his career, he has been a trusted brother, mentor, leader, and friend to countless firefighters. His experience, work ethic, and dedication have helped shape the Kokomo Fire Department and have left a lasting impact on everyone who has had the privilege of serving alongside him.

The Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396 would like to extend our sincere gratitude for Mike’s 36 years of service, sacrifice, and commitment to our community. While we know the firehouse won’t be quite the same without him, we are excited for him as he begins a well-earned retirement filled with family, friends, and the opportunity to enjoy the next chapter of life.

Thank you, Mike, for your Pride, Dedication, Loyalty, and Determination. Your legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in your footsteps.

Congratulations on your retirement, Brother. Enjoy every minute—you’ve earned it.

36 Years of Service. A Lifetime of Brotherhood.

🚒 Congratulations, Mike Barrett! Your Kokomo Fire Department family and your brothers and sisters of Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396 salute you.

06/22/2026

We support you and your fight!

A few months ago, Captain Tye Darlin received the news that no one wants to hear. He was informed that he had stage 3 cancer.

Captain Darlin has been undergoing intensive cancer treatments since that time. Throughout his treatment, Captain Darlin has continued to work and serve the citizens of Kokomo.

On June 26, the Kokomo FOP Lodge 78 will be hosting a fish fry for Tye. All of the proceeds will go to Tye and his family to assist them during this difficult time. This event is open to the public.

We would like to invite everyone to come out, enjoy some great food, and support Tye and his family!

06/13/2026

Thank you! From all members of Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396

06/10/2026

🐾☀️ Summer Pet Safety Reminder ☀️🐾

The Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396 want to remind pet owners that summer heat can be just as dangerous for our four-legged family members as it is for people.

🐕 Never Leave Pets in a Vehicle
Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to deadly levels within minutes. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.

💧 Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Make sure pets always have access to clean, cool water, especially when spending time outdoors.

🌳 Keep Them Cool
Provide shade and a cool place to rest. Consider bringing pets inside during extreme heat and humidity.

🐾 Protect Their Paws
Hot pavement, sidewalks, and asphalt can burn sensitive paw pads. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

🚶 Exercise During Cooler Hours
Walk pets early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.

⚠️ Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Watch for:

* Excessive panting
* Drooling
* Lethargy or weakness
* Vomiting
* Bright red gums
* Difficulty breathing
* Collapse or loss of consciousness

🚑 If your pet shows signs of heat stroke, move them to a cool area, offer water, and contact a veterinarian immediately.

❤️ Remember: Pets depend on us to keep them safe.

Let’s work together to ensure every pet in Kokomo enjoys a safe and healthy summer.

Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396
🚒 Pride • Dedication • Loyalty • Determination 🐾☀️

06/10/2026

☀️ Summer Heat & Safety Reminder ☀️

The Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396 want to remind everyone to stay safe during the hot summer months. High temperatures and humidity can quickly become dangerous if proper precautions aren’t taken.

🚰 Stay Hydrated

* Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
* Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
* Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to start drinking water.

🌳 Take Frequent Breaks

* If working or playing outside, rest in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
* Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

👕 Dress for the Heat

* Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing.
* Use hats and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

⚠️ Know the Signs of Heat Illness
Heat Exhaustion:

* Heavy sweating
* Dizziness or weakness
* Nausea
* Muscle cramps
* Cool, clammy skin

Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency):

* Body temperature above 104°F
* Hot, dry skin
* Confusion or altered mental status
* Loss of consciousness

If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, call 911 immediately.

Check on Others

* Elderly family members, young children, and those with medical conditions are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
* A simple phone call or visit can make a big difference.

Together, we can keep our community safe this summer. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and look out for one another.

Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396
Pride • Dedication • Loyalty • Determination