The Criminal Justice Program and Residence Life Department celebrated First Responders Day on Oct. 20. The national holiday – which is actually Oct. 28, – is intended to recognize and honor the work of police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics.
This is the second year that the Criminal Justice Program and Residence Life have teamed up to host this event. Hundreds of students attended the event this year despite inclement weather. Students were provided the opportunity to talk to First Responders about their duties, participate in simulated activities, and try on some of the gear worn by these individuals.
Some students went up in the bucket of a Cresson Fire Department truck. Others talked with local and state law enforcement officers, fire fighters and EMS responders.
“Having the opportunity for local first responders to join the Saint Francis University First Responders Day shows a great sense of community involvement and support for students, staff and faculty,” said student Joshua Little.
“Each year, I am excited to see the increase in the amount of support from Saint Francis and all of the First Responders. We thank all of the First Responders for serving and being heroes in our community.”
Students, faculty, staff, administration and alumni participated in the event this year. This event was organized by Don Miles, SFU’s Director of Residence Life, and Mark Buckwalter, an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice.
“This event is a community event in which students have the opportunity to learn about volunteerism and civic responsibility, as well as speak with potential future employers,” said Buckwalter.
The Loretto Volunteer Fire Company, the Keystone Regional Fire Department, the Cambria Alliance EMS, the Cambria County Sherriff’s Office, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Cambria County Box 11 Scene Support Team and the Cambria County Department of Emergency Services all participated in the event
