Press Release
North Carolina First Responder Day
September 11
Raleigh— In 2017 the NC General Assembly designated September 11thof each year as First Responder Day, making it an official State holiday. The date of September 11thwas chosen in recognition of the huge sacrifices made by first responders at the World Trade Center attack in New York. According to Tim Bradley, Executive Director of the NC State Firefighters’ Association (NCSFA), there are over 50,000 firefighters, both career and volunteer, in North Carolina serving 1,376 fire departments. “After the attacks on 9/11/01 we vowed to never forget the sacrifices made that day by first responders, 343 of whom were firefighters. Having this day each year as a State holiday will help keep the recognition of that sacrifice alive, and continue to honor those who serve their community with sacrifices every day.”
Fire departments across the State will hold various festivities on First Responder Day. This involves everything from ringing the community fire alarm to formal 9.11 services. According to Swannanoa Fire Chief Anthony Penland, who serves the year as President of NCSFA, “these services and recognitions are wonderful, but sometimes all it takes is a positive comment or pat on the back from a member of the community”. “It’s a recognition of service and sacrifice in the past as well as sacrifice yet to come” Penland said.
For information about events that may be occurring local for First Responders Day, contact your local fire department or police department.
For more information, press only:
Tim Bradley, Executive Director, NCSFA
919 821 2132
Tim@ncsfa.com
