Across the United States and in cities like Brooksville and Spring Hill, government employees serve and protect us every day.
Throughout the year, but especially during Public Service Recognition Week, May 1st – 7th, we should gratefully acknowledge their service.
This is personal to me because my Father was a New York City Fireman. He was a first responder to the Normandie Blaze in New York Harbor on Feb. 22, 1942. He and several of his colleagues developed breathing problems from toxic fumes from the fire. He died in 1954 at the age of 41. His dedication inspired me to join the Air Force, serve in Vietnam and continue as a civilian Federal employee.
I want to publically thank the thousands of active and retired Federal, State, County and Municipal employees in Florida for their unheralded but vital work.
Federal employees work side by side with our military at home and abroad to defend our country. They protect our borders and regulate the safety of our food and medicines. When natural disasters strike, they are there to help us recover.
During Public Service Recognition Week, please join me in thanking and recognizing the important work of the public employees in our community.
When you meet a fireman, policeman or other public servant please say thanks. If you are a current or retired Federal employees thank you for your service.
Dennis E. Foley is the Vice President of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees, chapter 1322.
He can be reached at (352)754-6160 or e-mail at peacock1973@att.net.