WHEREAS, individuals, both career and volunteer, including law enforcement personnel, emergency operators and dispatchers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), hospital and medical facility staff, search and rescue personnel, and many others serve the public as first responders in the event of an emergency; and
WHEREAS, first responders are vital members of our communities, protecting our neighbors and loved ones from existing threats and remaining vigilant for new threats that may emerge; and
WHEREAS, in service to our communities, first responders often risk their own personal safety to rescue others; and
WHEREAS, throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, first responders have been on the front lines in the ongoing effort to keep our communities safe from the wide-ranging and devastating effects of the virus; they have worked overtime, been away from their families, and in some cases, put their health and their lives at risk; and
WHEREAS, despite the challenges and dangers they face on the job, many first responders receive relatively low salaries according to figures from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics; and
WHEREAS, the families of first responders also make significant sacrifices to support their loved ones’ service; these family members live with the reality that their spouse, sibling, parent, or loved one may not return home from the job, and they deserve our appreciation and respect for bearing this burden; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina recognizes the significant work and sacrifices of our first responders and their families, and we are especially grateful for their service to keep North Carolinians safe;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 28, 2020, as “FIRST RESPONDER APPRECIATION DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.