June 07, 2019

Bipartisan Resolution to Honor the Nation's First Responders Unanimously Passes U.S. Senate

Resolution Text (PDF)

Washington, DC - United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Gary Peters (D-Mich.), as well as Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), and James Lankford (R-Okla.) celebrated the unanimous Senate passage of a resolution to designate October 28, 2019, as "Honoring the Nation's First Responders Day."

According to the Department of Homeland Security, an estimated 4.6 million career and volunteer firefighters, police, emergency medical technicians, and paramedic workers serve communities all across the United States. The resolution encourages Americans to honor our country's first responders with ceremonies and activities to recognize their contributions.

"First responders put their lives on the line to keep us safe. That's why it's up to every single one of us to honor their service and their sacrifices," said Senator Warren. "I'm glad the Senate passed our bipartisan resolution to recognize first responders, and I hope Americans view every day as an opportunity to celebrate the courage and strength of these exceptional public servants in our communities."

"Historic floods have ravaged my home state of Arkansas, but the rising waters are no match for the brave Arkansas first responders who stepped up to protect their friends and neighbors," said Senator Cotton. "First responders across the nation work tirelessly during times of crisis, often putting their own lives at risk to save others. Although these dedicated professionals deserve appreciation every day, our bill will now officially and properly celebrate their service on October 28th."

"Our first responders save countless lives every day, and many tragically pay the ultimate price in the line of duty -- a sacrifice we should never forget. Designating a day to honor their service and sacrifice is the least we can do to express our gratitude," said Chairman Johnson.

"First responders are dedicated to protecting our communities, and deserve to be recognized for the sacrifices they have made to keep each and every one of us safe," said Senator Peters. "I'm pleased the Senate passed this bipartisan resolution to honor the heroes in Michigan and across the country who stand ready to help in an emergency."

In 2017, Warren and Cotton worked to pass a similar resolution honoring first responders.

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