The Rockland Board of Selectmen unanimously voted on a proclamation, establishing annual Police and Fire appreciation days in town.
The first annual Police Department Appreciation Day will take place on Saturday, September 5. October 3 will mark the Fire Department Appreciation Day.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, public ceremonies will not be held, but people are encouraged to thank and support first responders.
“I think so often in current times, people look to professional athletes as heroes. We have some great people that work for us in this town, they put on the uniform every day,” said Selectmen Chair Mike O’Loughlin. “They’re heroes to members of this community. I think taking an opportunity to recognize them yearly, is definitely a step in the right direction.”
Selectman Rich Penney says during meetings, they regularly highlight the work both departments do to save lives, or save homes in town.
“Those are two professions that haven’t taken a day off. They haven’t complained about the dangers that are put in. They just go about doing their job,” said Penney. “I think it’s well over-due to officially recognize them.”
Selectman Mike Mullen says they’re fortunate to have the first responders they have in town.
“They’re part of town, they’re part of our community. They’re our neighbors, they’re our family members,” said Mullen. “Anything we can do to honor them, thank them for the sacrifices they’re making to protect all of us on a 24/7 basis – I think it’s right, I think it’s the responsible thing to do.”
Selectman Larry Ryan thanked both Fire Chief Scott Duffey and Police Chief John Llewellyn for their work.
“We do have a really good police department and a stellar fire department with an ambulance crew that takes care of an awful lot of people within the town of Rockland,” said Ryan. “We should recognize them on a routine basis. People will say they’re doing their job — they are doing their job, and they’re doing it well.”
The Selectmen voted unanimously to annually make the first Saturday in September Police Appreciation Day and the first Saturday in October Fire Appreciation Day.
