Every day, in communities across the United States, there are men and women who stand ready to answer the call of duty at a moment’s notice. These individuals are our first responders – the heroes who rush toward danger when others are fleeing from it. They are the dedicated firefighters, the compassionate paramedics, and the brave police officers who keep us safe and provide critical assistance in our times of need. As National First Responders Day approaches on October 28, 2023, it’s time for us to come together and express our deepest gratitude for the sacrifices they make and the invaluable service they provide.

Congress designated October 28 as National First Responders Day in 2017. The resolution honors the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and all those who are first on the scene in stressful situations. Notably, the family of Sean Collier, a police officer ambushed and murdered during events related to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, supported the resolution.

First responders are the backbone of our communities, and they selflessly put their lives on the line to protect ours. Their roles extend far beyond the emergency situations we see on the news. They are the ones who educate our children about fire safety, perform CPR in the darkest hours and ensure that our neighborhoods are safe. They bring comfort and hope to those in distress, and they do it all with unwavering dedication.

In recent years, the challenges facing our first responders have grown. They have been at the forefront of our fight against the pandemic outbreak, fires, weather-related emergencies and other natural disasters. Our region’s first responders were there when a child went missing on a rainy Sunday several months ago, a tragic bus accident on Interstate 84 several weeks ago and a shooting after a homecoming football game last year. The burdens they shoulder are immense, yet they continue to serve with courage and resilience, often at great personal cost.

This National First Responders Day, let us celebrate and acknowledge the sacrifices they make every day. It is an opportunity for all of us to show our appreciation and respect for these heroes who have chosen a path of service that demands their utmost commitment.

This October 28, let’s make it clear that we stand beside our first responders, showing our unwavering support and gratitude. We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never truly be repaid. National First Responders Day is our chance to honor their sacrifice, bravery and unwavering commitment to serving and protecting us all. It’s a day to remind ourselves that these individuals are the real heroes among us, and their sacrifices should never go unnoticed.