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A firefighter in safety gear and helmet looks out, behind him is debris from a building. Text in the image reads "Join us in honoring our public safety heroes: International Firefighters Day | May 4, Public Service Recognition Week | May 5-11, National Police Week |  May 13-17, National EMS Week | May 19-25"

Honoring Our Nation’s Heroes This May

May 1, 2019

Every day, first responders across the nation step up to handle some of the biggest challenges anyone can imagine. The work they perform is difficult and often dangerous, and it speaks to their bravery and commitment to their communities.  Last month, we honored our nation’s 9-1-1 telecommunicators and dispatchers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.  During the month of May, the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) will join in recognizing and celebrating first responders for the critical, lifesaving work they perform year-round.

Please join us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram as we highlight the dedication and selfless sacrifices of those in the fire service, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and all of public service through these annual celebrations:

May 4: International Firefighters’ Day and National Wildfire Community Preparedness Day

In honor of International Firefighters’ Day, we will be thanking, honoring, and commending firefighters around the world for their selfless efforts to protect their communities. Join the FirstNet Authority, Board Member Chief Richard Carrizzo, and Senior Fire Services Advisor Mike Worrell on social media on this day as we remember the firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

We will also celebrate National Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, which aims to educate and prepare communities on wildfire safety. Being prepared for wildfires is vital to protecting both fire service personnel and the communities they serve. Follow us on social media throughout the day to learn how FirstNet can help first responders stay safe, connected, and prepared.

May 5-11: Public Service Recognition Week

For the past 35 years, Public Service Recognition Week has celebrated the honorable men and women who serve our nation as Federal, State, and local government employees. As a public entity, the FirstNet Authority team is proud to serve our nation’s first responders as we work to deploy and advance FirstNet. Celebrate with us on social media using the hashtag #PSRW2019 and learn why our staff answered the call to serve.

May 13-17: National Police Week

The nation’s men and women in blue put their life on the line every day to keep us safe and protected. During this week, the FirstNet Authority will honor the law enforcement community’s immense contributions, commitments, and sacrifices.  During National Police Week, please join Board Member Sheriff Richard Stanek and Senior Law Enforcement Advisor Harry Markley as we remember those officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice and the men and women who bravely serve their communities every day.

May 19-25: National EMS Week

Authorized by President Gerald Ford in 1974, National EMS Week is dedicated to honoring EMS practitioners and their commitment to protecting the health and safety of communities. During this week, the FirstNet Authority will highlight these first responders who contribute to the wellbeing of the nation. Join FirstNet Authority Board Member Paul Patrick and Senior EMS Advisor Brent Williams as we celebrate and honor those who serve on the front lines of emergency response and medical care. 

Please join us and take a moment during the month of May to recognize the dedication of our public safety community across the country. The FirstNet Authority is honored to serve these everyday heroes and help them perform their jobs more effectively, efficiently, and — most importantly — safely.