“From recent tornados in the Southeast and wildfires in the West, to the tragic events at Virginia Tech, and the wrath of Hurricane Katrina, our first responders regularly risk their lives to protect property, uphold the law and save the lives of others,” said Allard. “I am very proud of this well-deserved recognition for our nation’s first responders. Designating September 25th as National First Responder Appreciation Day provides an opportunity for Americans to honor first responders for their contributions, sacrifices and dedication to public service.”
Since December 2006, the First Response Coalition (FRC) has asked Congress to establish an official day that recognizes first responders for their sacrifices, contributions and dedication to public service. To date, over 5,000 people have signed the FRC’s online petition calling for a National First Responder Appreciation Day. Recently, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army, the National Civic League and the Veterans of Foreign Wars have endorsed the FRC campaign.
“The FRC would like to thank Sen. Allard for his leadership on this issue. The FRC is very pleased with the strong support the Senate has shown for our first responders, and the swift action they have taken to help give our heroes the national day of appreciation and recognition that they deserve,” said Steven Jones, FRC executive director. “I would like to today call on the House of Representatives to introduce a similar resolution as soon as possible, and ask President Bush to get his pen ready to make National First Responder Appreciation Day the annual day of recognition that it deserves to be.”
Visit http://www.FirstResponseCoalition.org to learn more about the FRC’s campaign for a National First Responder Appreciation Day and sign the FRC’s petition to Congress.