Each year across the nation, an average 100 firefighters die in the line of duty.
Firefighter pipes and drums bands will join forces in Sept. to show their respect at the Fallen Firefighter's Memorial.
A fundraiser was held Saturday at the speedway to help pay for the Meridian firefighters' traveling expenses.
Eighteen Treasure Valley teams brought in big pots of chili for the band's 8th Annual Chili Cook Off.
"Our profession as firefighters is one big family. So, whether you work here in the valley or you work back East or in the South somewhere, they're still your brothers and sisters. We're doing the same job out there," said Tony Chance, Meridian Fire bagpipe player. "When they die in the line of duty, it feels like we lost one of our own."
Donations are still being accepted. You can connect with the Meridian Firefighter's Pipes and Drums band on Facebook for details.
