Council President Ginther Participates in Bless the Badge Ceremony
For Immediate Release January 7, 2015
For More Information:
John Ivanic, City Council, 645-6798
Council President Andrew J.
Ginther joined community leaders and Columbus area police and fire fighters for
the annual Bless the Badge ceremony sponsored by Central Ohio Crime
Stoppers. The event, held at the Fire Fighters Union Hall,
offers prayers for the safety and protection of local law enforcement and fire
fighters for the upcoming year.
Council President Ginther’s full remarks:
Thank you.
I am humbled and honored to join you this morning to pray for the safety of the men and women who serve within the Columbus Divisions of Police and Fire.
As your City Council President and the former Safety Committee chair, I have had the opportunity to meet hundreds of police officers and fire fighters – many of you here today – who serve our community with pride.
Not a day goes by that I am not impressed your courage, dedication and professionalism.
And, every day, when you put on your uniform and go to work in Columbus neighborhoods, you make us safer and help make Columbus a great place to live.
Thank you.
Through your selfless service to your community, we are able to enjoy a quality of life second to none.
And, as far as I concerned, Columbus has the best first responders in the world.
Police officers and fire fighters are special people who have answered a higher calling…a professional life of self-sacrifice born out of the quality of your character.
It is your sense of service over self, commitment to professional standards and your dedication to fairness that earns you the community’s honor, respect and praise.
To the members of the Divisions of Police and Fire who are here with us today – and to the family, friends and loved ones who support you – I want you to know, that we as a City will continue to do everything we can to provide you the support and resources you need to get the job done right, and to ensure that at the end of your shift, you return home to those you love, safely.
We pledge this not only to you, but also to your families, because we know that when you serve, they serve with you. We ask God’s continued blessing and protection of each you as you go forth from this day.
God bless you, and God bless Columbus.
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