The Nation's First Responders put their lives on the line every day, sometimes making the Ultimate Sacrifice to serve their communities and even other communities in need in times of disaster. We have no National Holiday to show our appreciation and to pay respect for their efforts. Meanwhile we have a National Holiday to honor Columbus, whose contribution to history is questioned and resulted in decimated ancient and complex societies.
Please end the embarrassment of defining Columbus Day as a National Holiday and replace it with one celebrated on 9/11 that honors this nation's First Responders. Every Firefighter, Police Officer, EMT, Paramedic, Search and Rescue Team and Emergency Management Personnel deserves to be recognized for their daily contributions to keeping America safe.