Sandy: Let’s Give Some Credit To First Responders

For several days, our members have been on the job: assisting in evacuations; inspecting roads, bridges and tunnels; and providing the emergency services that were required as the tides rose and lives were put in peril.

[Op-Ed]

The total damage done by the torrential rains and powerful winds of Sandy are not yet fully known, but it should be clear to everyone that once again our nation’s first responders have done a remarkable job under the most trying and difficult circumstances.

AFSCME members are proud of the brave efforts of our sisters and brothers who have pulled together to meet the challenges faced by communities up and down the eastern region of the country.

For several days, our members have been on the job: assisting in evacuations; inspecting roads, bridges and tunnels; and providing the emergency services that were required as the tides rose and lives were put in peril.  

Nowhere has their courage and dedication been more evident than in New York City and in New Jersey, where public services and the workers who provide them have been demonstrating the dedication and commitment that America has come to expect from our heroic members.

Last night belonged to Sandy and the first responders. Many of our members lost power in their homes and have seen their street disappear under water.  

Yet, they have gone out to help those in danger. Their commitment to duty and to their communities deserve our highest praise and continued thanks.

Now, the coming days, weeks, and even months will also belong to the public service workers, electrical crews, transit workers, health care professionals, sanitation workers and so many others working tirelessly to put our devastated cities and towns back together.  

There will be many days and nights of hard, difficult and heavy work. I know that AFSCME members across the country will be mobilizing to provide help and support for those who have suffered during this devastating storm.  

We will do our part to help repair the damage and rebuild the communities impacted by this terrible disaster.

Saunders is President of the AFSCME, whose 1.6 million members provide the vital services that make America happen.

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