Gov. Fletcher honors emergency workers during First Responder's Day

Kentucky Office of Homeland Security Press Release

FRANKFORT — Governor Ernie Fletcher today honored Kentucky’s emergency services personnel during “First Responders’ Day” in the Commonwealth. Governor Fletcher signed a proclamation designating February 9, 2007 as “First Responders Day” in honor of the states nearly 40,000 responders.

“Kentucky’s First Responders represent some of the Commonwealth’s best examples of courage and devotion to duty,” said Governor Ernie Fletcher. “On this day, we remember and honor those who heroically and selflessly serve our communities and families. Because of their service, we will remain committed to ensuring that our emergency personnel are properly trained and equipped to provide the highest level of public safety.”

Governor Fletcher’s commitment to First Responders includes:

• More than $93 million in homeland security grants since 2004, invested in enhanced emergency communications capabilities, 911 improvements, training and exercise, and community preparedness projects.

• More than $57 million for the Firefighters’ Foundation Fund Program in the 2006 budget, included to ensure firefighters receive the highest level of training possible and that Kentucky’s firefighting force operates safely.

• Signing House Bill 256, which gives more job security to volunteer firefighters.

• More than $14 million in Byrne Formula Block Grant and Justice Assistance Grants since 2004, funding utilized to implement criminal justice technology improvements, substance abuse treatment, delinquency prevention, prisoner re-entry, and other criminal justice programs.

• $500,000 for firefighter training within the Kentucky Community and Technical College System.

• Law Enforcement Service Fee (LSF) Grants totaling $744,290 since 2004. These awards provide law enforcement agencies with support for local DUI enforcement efforts, including: overtime, equipment and public awareness/prevention/education campaigns.  

• Kentucky State Police's Highway Safety Program has provided more than $12 million since 2004 to various state and local agencies for enforcement, media campaigns, training, systems improvements, etc.

Today’s proclamation of “First Responders Day” is the date’s second annual observance. The day was also honored by a resolution in the State Senate sponsored by Senator Carroll Gibson (R-Leitchfield).

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