To the Editor:
The recent Independence Day holiday was an appropriate occasion to honor our brave men and women in the U.S. armed forces. They protect our freedom in places like Afghanistan and Iraq, and they are true American heroes.
Right here in Bayonne, there are people in uniform who perform heroism every day just doing their jobs. On Wednesday, June 29, my family and I were enjoying a relaxing summer afternoon at 27th Street Park near City Hall. While playing with her two young grandsons, my mother fell and severely injured her leg. The children were terrified. My aunt, Mary Ellen, ran for help.
Fortunately, there is a police station and firehouse directly across from the park. Upon learning of the accident, a fireman called for assistance. Within minutes, five firefighters and several police officers arrived at the scene.
One fireman applied first aid to my mother while another summoned an ambulance. A police officer accompanied her to the nearest emergency room. Meanwhile, several firemen calmed the children’s fears and assured them that their grandmother would be alright.
It is easy to underappreciate our civil servants. The police and fire departments have difficult jobs, and they risk their lives every day to keep our community safe. They are everyday heroes and I will be eternally grateful for them.
LAURA RUTAN