Hundreds of first responders, local dignitaries, community members, and more gathered at the North Ridge Country Club early Wednesday morning to thank first responders in the Wake County area.
CPI Security returned as the presenting sponsor of the Raleigh Chamber’s First Responders Appreciation Breakfast. CPI has been sponsoring the program since 2015.
The First Responders Appreciation Breakfast gives the community an opportunity to show their thanks to first responders, while also raising money for the 200 Club of Wake County. The 200 Club of Wake County provides financial assistance to the spouses and children of first responders who lost their lives in the line of duty.
CPI Security’s Chief Growth Officer, Ben Brookhart, delivered opening remarks at this year’s First Responders Appreciation Breakfast.
“I believe that God gives us all a gift. And I believe that one of those gifts is for you to protect and serve this community. And although I may not know you and you may not know me, I just want you to know that I love you for doing that for our community,” Brookhart said.
In addition to thanking first responders, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared September as First Responders Appreciation Month in North Carolina. Additionally, the Wake County Board of Commissioners and the Raleigh City Council each declared September 22nd and September 18th, respectively, as First Responders Appreciation Day.
Adjutant General of the North Carolina National Guard, Major General Todd Hunt, served as the keynote speaker of the event.
“There’s only 50,000 first responders in North Carolina … you’re an elite bunch, an elite force, and your dedication and selfless service is unsurpassed if you just look at the statistics. So, thank you again for what you do for our great state,” Hunt said.
Members of the following agencies were recognized with the Outstanding Service Award for various acts of heroism and bravery in the line of duty:
Wake County Sheriff’s Office
North Carolina State Highway Patrol
State Capitol Police
Wake County Emergency Medical Services
Raleigh-Wake County Emergency Communications Center
City of Raleigh Police Department
Raleigh Fire Department
At the conclusion of the event, the Raleigh Chamber presented a $15,000 check to the 200 Club of Wake County.
CPI Security is proud to support events recognizing first responders. We thank each and every first responder for their service.