Congressman Calls for National First Responders Appreciation Day

With a host of first responders from different Bucks County agencies around him, Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (R-Bucks) on Friday called for a National First Responders Appreciation Day.

“Sadly, recent events have focused our commonwealth and nation on the danger faced by our first responders every time they put on a uniform,” Fitzpatrick said. The congressman cited the dangerous circumstances that first responders often deal with including the manhunt in Pennsylvania for alleged cop-killer Eric Frein.

Saturday in Pennsylvania is already National First Responders Appreciation Day and Fitzpatrick hopes to get other national lawmakers to recognize the day in all 50 states. Fitzpatrick spokesperson Aaron Clark said roughly 20 other states already recognize September as First Responders Appreciation Day.

“We’re not up here for the accolades,” Bensalem Public Safety Director Fred Harran said. He added that the men and women who service their communities do it for the good of their friends and neighbors.

Harran said first responders scope of response has changed in recent years due to the threat of international terrorism.

Langhorne Middletown Fire Chief and state representative Frank Farry (R-Bucks), and state Senator Tommy Tomlinson (R-Bucks) also attended along with members of the Bensalem EMS, Bucks County Sheriff’s Department, Falls Township Police Department, Penndel Borough Police Department and other first responders from the area.

“While there is a need for a National First Responders Appreciation Day to ensure we remain grateful for the service and commitment of our emergency services, it’s critical that we remember that thanking our law enforcement, fire and medical personnel is important 365 days a year,” Fitzpatrick said.