Legacy Of Leadership & Freedom

Powerful leaders have been an essential part of the American institution. The country was born because of the sacrifice of brave soldiers, who fought for the freedom of the American people from the tyranny of the British Government. We could gain our independence and establish a country based on freedom for the citizens. Through their selfless actions, we can enjoy the results of their actions in our lives today. Our brave first responders' efforts to maintain the freedom we experience. They fight for and protect us from domestic attacks on our freedom and lives. 

“Our strength as a nation comes in our unity. We are the United States of America, not the divided states. And those who want to divide us are trying to divide us, and we shouldn't let them do it.” Ben Carson

The Role Of Soldiers

The United States was not born out of peace. Brave men and women fought for it and died to bring it into existence. There was a substantial amount of resistance and outright defiance to the separation and division from British control. Men took up arms and forcefully demanded their freedom and a future better than their present situation. They wanted freedom and safety for their families. 

“I experience for the American officers and soldiers that friendship which arises from having shared with them for a length of time dangers, sufferings, and both good and evil fortune.” Marquis de Lafayette

It was not a simple task, but the colonists considered it vital for the future. They were willing to put their lives on the line. It meant enough for them to put their lives on the line and fight with everything they had. Colonists left the only lives they had ever known and forged ahead into the unknown. 

“America's fighting men and women sacrifice much to ensure our great nation stays free. We owe a debt of gratitude to the soldiers who have paid the ultimate price for this cause and those who are blessed enough to return from the battlefield unscathed.” Allen Boyd

The Role Of First Responders

The brave firefighters, law enforcement, and paramedics put their lives on the line daily to save and protect the American people. In recent years, there has been a growing movement concerning hatred and harsh criticism toward law enforcement when criminals die because of their poor decisions and refusal to obey the laws keeping the citizens safe. There has been a war on police officers. Those who keep us safe are being targeted for attack when responding to emergency calls and making routine traffic stops. They are dying while simply doing their jobs.

“I'm saying to be a hero is means you step across the line and are willing to make a sacrifice, so heroes always are making a sacrifice. Heroes always take a risk. Heroes always deviant. Heroes always doing something that most people don't and we want to change - I want to democratize heroism to say any of us can be a hero.” Philip Zimbardo

Often, First Responders are called “Frontline Warriors” as they are the ones who run into situations everyone else is running away from. Brave First Responders arrive when there is an emergency or crime. It is their purpose and mission to protect civilians. This can come as providing first aid or medical care in the aftermath of an accident or health-related incident. It is not their job to settle or resolve violent episodes, but they are often called to serve amid domestic violence or other violent events. Paramedics are often called because of an accident or attack. 

“Police officers know that each time they put on their uniform, they are taking on risks to protect others.” Mike Parson

Resolving disputes and conflicts between civilians falls to police, sheriffs, and deputies. They put their lives on the line daily, when they put on their uniform. They have families, wives, and children who rely upon them to come home. 

“History has taught us over and over again that freedom is not free. When push comes to shove, the ultimate protectors of freedom and liberty are the brave men and women in our armed forces. Throughout our history, they've answered the call in bravery and sacrifice.” Tim Pawlenty

The recent debate surrounding law enforcement's maligned intentions has placed them directly in the crosshairs of disgruntled citizens who believe that law enforcement targeted them because of their race. This is very dangerous for law enforcement officers and citizens. The inability of officers to safely perform their duties puts innocent citizens in peril, preventing police from reaching them to provide aid. 

“There is a certain enthusiasm in liberty, that makes human nature rise above itself, in acts of bravery and heroism.” Alexander Hamilton

Different But Equal

Soldiers and Police Officers. Firefighters and paramedics protect the country in different ways. While soldiers protect our borders on the front lines of battle when there is a threat or danger from a different country, they leave their families behind and confront the enemy on foreign soil. In contrast, first responders protect citizens on domestic soil. 

Police officers put their lives on the line every day they put on the badge and uniform. Firefighters run into burning buildings and rescue people. Dispatchers send paramedics when people are injured following an accident or attack. Both brave men and women protect the country they love, in different but critical ways. First responders are members of the community they serve. This great country could not remain safe without either of these fearless individuals who put their lives on the line and answered the call to protect and serve.