Ouray County Proclamation

First Responder Appreciation Day

WHEREAS, Ouray County first responders, including career and volunteer, serve on the frontlines of our community to ensure public safety and render aid to those in need, risking their own safety to protect the public; and

WHEREAS, law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel, search and rescue teams, emergency management professionals, and members of other organizations in the public safety field come together to protect and aid the public in the event of an emergency; and

WHEREAS, Ouray County first responders experienced an exceptionally busy and challenging summer this year with wildfires, tragic vehicle accidents, technical rescues, deaths, suicides, domestic violence incidents, and more; and

WHEREAS, these brave Ouray County individuals face danger, stress, and sacrifice daily while responding to these emergencies and crises; and

WHEREAS, it’s nearly impossible to “leave work at work” because the work of responding to and caring for others, often at their worst moment, isn’t easily forgotten or paused simply by leaving work. Our first responders see and hear things most of us never want to even imagine; and

WHEREAS, Ouray County first responders must be ready to provide lifesaving services to Ouray County residents and visitors, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, throughout the year; and

WHEREAS, Ouray County first responders undergo significant education, specialized training and personal sacrifice, often missing holidays, birthdays, and other important events with family and friends, to contribute their excellent and necessary skills to the public; and

WHEREAS, our Ouray County first responders need our support - and supporting them could be as easy as a wave, or a smile; ask them how they’re doing; handwrite a card or letter of appreciation; connect with first responders on social channels; participate in events that connect citizens and first responders, or attend local department fundraising events; and

WHEREAS, we recognize the integral role that Ouray County first responders have in our community and the benefits we experience thanks to their hard work, commitment, sacrifice and dedication; and

WHEREAS, October 28, 2025, is First Responder Appreciation Day, a day for us to honor the bravery and sacrifice of our first responders; and

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ouray County Board of County Commissioners proclaims October 28, 2025, as First Responder Appreciation Day in Ouray County and call this observance to the attention of our citizens.