There is a special call answered by a number of women and men who choose to put themselves in front of the danger, the fire, the medical emergency, or any situation that would make their heart beat faster and their minds race a thousand miles per hour.

This call to service is answered by so many in Sullivan County, and as each day passes, day in and day out, the community’s overwatch remains relentless.

Police officers, medical first responders, fire fighters, and all who put themselves last when things don’t go as planned – your steadfastness is witnessed not without gratitude.

Looking at the world around us, stories of dangers unprecedented are rising to the top of the fold each and every week. Senseless mass shootings, massive property-destroying fires, and more specifically to Sullivan County: suffering health rankings at the hands of opioids and other illegal substances.

All of these things are out there, yet minimized by those who do something about it firsthand.

At home, we take refuge in knowing that no matter what is happening in the county, big or small, we have the ‘good ones’ to watch our backs whenever, wherever. While not guaranteed at any point, the trust earned from our local first responders has almost made it seem that way.

It is important to remember that when things take a turn for the worst, to keep an eye out for the “helpers.” Fred Rogers of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood once noted that his mother, Nancy, had told him early on in his life to “look for the helpers,” and that “you will always find people who are helping,” especially in the bad times. 

Within the borders of Sullivan County, we are fortunate to know and cherish so many of these “helpers.”

We applaud and thank those who help; while it often goes without thanks, this caliber of bravery need not fly under the radar until it is forcibly remembered. For a full list of those who help Sullivan County in this way, see the Democrat’s 9/11 Tab, published on March 28.

Thank you, helpers. Be fast, but above all else, be safe.