That the correspondence from the Essex Fire and Rescue Service asking Council to consider proclaiming International Firefighters Day in the Town of Essex be received or received and supported, and if supported;
That Council proclaim May 4, 2024 as International Firefighters Day in the Town of Essex by adopting the following resolution:
Whereas, Firefighters dedicate their lives to the protection of life and property; and sometimes that dedication is in the form of countless hours volunteered over many years, in others it is many selfless years working in the industry; in all cases it risks the ultimate sacrifice of a firefighter's life; and
Whereas, International Firefighters' Day (IFFD) is a time where the community can recognize and honor the sacrifices that firefighters make to ensure that their communities and environment are as safe as possible; it is also a day in which current and past firefighters can be thanked for their contributions; and
Whereas, International Firefighters' Day is observed each year on the 4th of May on where we remember the past firefighters who have died while serving our community or dedicated their lives to protecting the safety of us all; and show our support and appreciation to the firefighters worldwide who continue to protect us so well throughout the year; and
Whereas, hailing from all walks of life, they are our mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, grandparents, neighbors, and friends. They protect us without wanting of recognition or reward. In our time of need they are there with courage, compassion and loyalty. They are the essence of the true meaning of community.
Therefore, I, Sherry Bondy, Mayor of the Town of Essex, on behalf of the Town Council and community at large, now call upon all citizens of the Town of Essex and upon all patriotic, civic, and educational organizations to observe the day of May 4, 2024, in recognition of the patriotic service and dedicated efforts of our fire and emergency services personnel.