Texas City to Celebrate EMS, First Responders

March 31--Don't be surprised if you're seeing blue Friday.

Many locals will wear blue to support the Kerrville Police Department, Kerrville Fire Department, Kerr County Sheriff's Office and other fire department, emergency medical personnel and first responders throughout Kerrville and Kerr County.

Starting in April, first Fridays will be set aside each month to honor those who put themselves in harm's way every day to protect the public. Area residents are encouraged to wear something blue to show their support of first responders.

The First Friday for First Responders campaign was the brainchild of a trio of Noon Rotary Club members -- Howell Ridout, Dave Vinyard and Jeff Wendling -- who announced the initiative at the club's March meeting.

The idea of the campaign is to promote a positive message about first responders, especially in light of some less-positive perceptions circulating in the public.

Kerrville Police Chief David Knight described the idea as an "excellent concept," one that he is looking forward to seeing implemented.

"We appreciate the support they're trying to engender in the community for not only the police department but all the first responders throughout Kerr County," Knight said.

He said while perceptions of law enforcement might be influenced by news stories nationally or locally, Kerrville is overall very supportive of law enforcement and the job first responders do.

"It's not unusual in this community for people to approach officers to say thanks," Knight said, noting people will sometimes pay for officers' meals in restaurants or pay for their coffee. "It provides a reminder, if you would, that our community is separate and distinct from problem areas in other parts of the country."

Kerrville Fire and EMS Chief Dannie Smith called the initiative "a high honor," noting that first responders risk their lives every day to protect the people they serve.

"I thought it was pretty exciting when the idea was first presented to me, and I think it's even more exciting now," he said.

Posters created for the campaign, including one featuring a photo of members of the Kerrville Fire Department from 1903, are available at the offices of all of the campaign's sponsors. The sponsors include The Kerrville Daily Times, Nationwide Insurance and all Kerrville locations of Guadalupe National Bank.

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