For too long, there has been a need for national recognition of firefighters, EMTs, EMS personnel, and police—our First Responders—akin to Veterans Day.
In 2019, a bipartisan group of U.S. senators successfully passed legislation designating October 28 as National First Responders Day, a step toward honoring those who risk their lives in service to their communities. However, since 2020, momentum appears to have waned. While some states observe October 28, others recognize First Responders Day on different dates. For example, Georgia acknowledges it on September 11, yet in 2020, Governor Brian Kemp proclaimed February 1 as First Responders Day in the state.
Surprisingly, major organizations representing first responders—including NEMSMA (National EMS Management Association), NAEMT (National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians), NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), and the National Police Association—do not actively promote or participate in National First Responders Day. A search for the observance yields no connection to these key organizations. Moreover, when surveyed, hundreds of first responders themselves were unaware that a day had been set aside in their honor.
Currently, National First Responders Day appears to fall under the oversight of FEMA and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) (source). However, this is akin to having Memorial Day or Veterans Day organized by a single branch of the military, rather than being a truly unified national recognition.
Organizations such as The We Serve Network, One EMS Unified, The Patriots Voice Foundation, and Camp 4 Heroes are actively working to raise public awareness and ensure that National First Responders Day receives the recognition it deserves. To achieve this, we propose that the President establish a National First Responders Day Committee—independent of FEMA—tasked with elevating the day to the same level of national observance as Veterans Day.
It’s time to ensure that the millions who serve as first responders today, and those who have bravely served in the past, receive the unified recognition they deserve. Let’s organize National First Responders Day with the same cohesion and respect as Veterans Day.
When disaster strikes, when chaos unfolds, when lives hang in the balance—first responders answer the call. They are the ones who run toward danger when others flee, who bring hope in the darkest moments, and who stand as the thin line between tragedy and survival.
Yet, while they dedicate their lives to protecting us, their sacrifice often goes unnoticed. Now is the time to stand with them. To honor their service. To ensure they receive the recognition they deserve.
Because when the worst happens in our communities and our homes—first responders matter the most. Let’s come together and show them the unwavering support they have always shown us.
A Voice for the Brave!
We are We Serve Network USA. A united force. A voice of gratitude. A beacon of unwavering support for those who stand on the front lines.
From first responders - firefighters, EMS, and police - to the brave men and women of our armed forces - Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Space Force - to those who rescue our four legged family members - K9 Care Montana - we stand with you. We recognize your sacrifice. We honor your commitment. And we ensure your voices are heard.
We Serve First Responders Association
First Responders join the WSFRA today at No Cost. For updates on national first repsonders day, benefits, events, news, updates, advocacy, discounts, health updates, legal input, job openings, and