Organizations across the country are marking National First Responders Day today with ceremonies, educational programs, recognition events and fundraising efforts honoring police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers and other emergency responders. The annual observance recognizes the men and women who respond when emergencies strike and highlights the sacrifices they make in service to their communities.

From a national ceremony in New York City's Times Square to responder wellness initiatives in California and professional discussions on emergency response in public works, today's events showcase the many roles that make up the first responder community. 

First Responders Children's Foundation Roll Call of Heroes

The First Responders Children's Foundation, in partnership with T-Mobile, is hosting its annual Roll Call of Heroes ceremony in New York City. The event recognizes first responders from across the country representing law enforcement, fire, EMS, 911 dispatch and volunteer response organizations. Organizers say the ceremony also marks the foundation's 25th anniversary, the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and America's 250th birthday.

The ceremony is open to the public and includes hero awards honoring first responders for their service and contributions to public safety. Jon Stewart will host the event.

Those unable to attend events in person can participate through the First Responders Children's Foundation's livestream from Times Square, which gives viewers an opportunity to join the national observance and watch first responders be recognized for their service.

• When: 11 a.m. to noon ET
• Where: Duffy Square, Times Square, New York City
• More event info: First Responders Children's Foundation National First Responders Day Event
• Livestream link: National First Responders Day Livestream

First Responder Support Network After Party & Gala

The First Responder Support Network is celebrating National First Responders Day with its inaugural gala, bringing together public safety leaders, first responders, community supporters and partners for an evening focused on recognition, support and responder wellness. Proceeds from the event will support the organization's trauma-informed programs for first responders and their families. 

The event includes volunteer and honoree recognition, fundraising efforts and personal stories from the first responder community before transitioning into an after party featuring live music, desserts, dancing and refreshments.

• When: Begins at 5:30 p.m. PDT
• Where: San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center Green Room, San Francisco
• More info: First Responder Support Network Events

Public Works Are First Responders

The American Public Works Association is using National First Responders Day to spotlight the role public works professionals play during disasters, severe weather events and emergency response operations through its virtual town hall. The discussion focuses on how public works agencies support emergency management efforts and how chapters are pursuing formal first responder recognition in states and municipalities nationwide.

Featured participants include Robert Garland, Adisa Aarons and Tyler Hill, along with other public works leaders discussing emergency operations, interagency coordination and advocacy efforts within the profession.

• When: 11 a.m. ET 
• Where: Virtual event 
• Town hall link: APWA Public Works Are First Responders Town Hall

Coatesville First Responders Celebration

Community members in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, are gathering for an afternoon event that combines first responder recognition with public safety education. Activities include CPR and AED demonstrations, fire-safety awareness programs, opportunities to meet local first responders and a tribute wall where residents can leave messages of appreciation.

Organizers say the event is intended to strengthen connections between residents and the police, fire and EMS personnel who serve the community.

• When: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. EDT
• Where: Downtown Coatesville Gazebo, Lincoln Highway between First and Second avenues, Coatesville
• More info: Coatesville First Responders Celebration

Together, the events reflect the breadth of the nation's first responder community, from police officers, firefighters and paramedics to dispatchers, volunteers and public works professionals who support emergency response efforts. As communities observe National First Responders Day, organizers hope the programs will increase awareness of the critical roles these professionals play every day.