President Bob rang the bell to begin our very special tribute to our First Responders. Don Carlos playing the bagpipes while leading the First Responders into the room, one each sitting at a special seat at a table. Our song was twofold; Mr. Carlos
and the bagpipes solemnly intoning “Amazing Grace” and a message via video from FDNY First Responder, Dan Rowan who lost 10 of his 15 firefighter brothers on 9/11. He said, “The brothers stay with me; I carry them over my heart.” He showed us the cards he carries with him at all times; ten cards, ten pictures, ten stories. A video of God Bless America” was sung by NYPD officer Daniel Rodriguez. Officer Rodriguez sang from his heart at the World Series after 9/11.
Our inspiration was seven year old Police Officer Oliver who gives hugs, and sets up a donut stand for our police officers in Kansas.
Paul Hallums was very involved in bringing this heart inspiring program to us. We honored our First Responders with five moving speeches. TPD Police Chief Chris Magnus spoke about the need for continued support of police men and women, everyday at all times; that the suicide rate among police across the country is huge. Sheriff Mark Napier reminded us that the men and women who choose to be public servants, run toward danger, not flee from danger. Tucson Deputy Fire Chief Darin Wallentine spoke about the dangers from cancer that fire fighters face; 90% chance of getting some form of cancer from their work. Tucson Fire Asst. Chief Laura Baker spoke about the camp that the Fire Department has created to encourage more girls to become fire fighters. DM Fire Chief Todd Canale shared with us that many agencies have been training their emergency responders together, creating a community among all of Tucson’s Emergency workers.
After the meeting was adjourned, a photo was taken with the First Responders and checks were presented to the Foundations.
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