Let's Thank Our First Responders on October 28
Sandy Raynor, National Chair, National Defense Committee

Congress designated October 28th as National First Responders Day in 2017.  What Does a First Responder Do?  The Homeland Security Act 2002 defines first responders as individuals who protect life, evidence, property, or the environment during the early stages of an emergency. Most often, they are responsible for going immediately to the scene of an accident or emergency to provide aid.

In 2019, a bipartisan group of senators successfully passed legislation to officially mark October 28th as National First Responders Day, a day to honor the service and sacrifice of those answering the call in their communities.

While there are several days dedicated exclusively to the appreciation of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers, firefighters and law enforcement, National First Responders Day honors the collective work of all public safety professionals.

The day honors the paramedics, emergency medical technicians (EMT), firefighters, police officers and 911 operators who answer the call when a crisis arises, often putting their own lives on the line. Serving as a national day of gratitude, National First Responders Day pays tribute to their services to their communities and honors fallen first responders. National First Responders Day is also a call for action to support first responders.

National First Responders Day honors the brave men and women who make it their mission to serve and protect us in our times of need. It's a time to recognize and express gratitude for all that they do for our communities, from responding to emergency situations to providing medical assistance and more!

First responders across the country put their lives on the line to keep Americans safe. An estimated 4.6 million people serve as career and volunteer firefighters, police, EMTs, and paramedics in the United States. Americans are encouraged to honor our country's first responders with ceremonies and activities to recognize their contributions.

Suggested activities: 

  • Ask your mayor to provide a proclamation for the day and present it to your local fire and police departments.
  • Write a letter or send a card to the local police or fire department, public or private ambulance service or EMS, share your positive experiences regarding these services on social media, publish a thank you in the local newspaper or digital magazine, or drop off food items.
  • Reach out to your local police, fire, or Emergency Medical Service (EMS) agency and ask what they would most appreciate, and when is a good time to drop off items and potentially meet a few crew members.
  • Consider gifts that are pre-sealed (for safety) as opposed to homemade cookies.
  • Recognize distinguished First Responders in your community with a DAR Distinguished Citizen Medal

Whatever you decide to do as individuals or as a chapter, any small act of kindness on October 28th will be certain to be appreciated. Here is a link to a Canva graphic to post on your personal or chapter’s social media.

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