WHEREAS, For the last century, the Philadelphia Second Alarmers have honorably served the City’s first responders with meals, refreshments, equipment, and support during emergencies and large public events; and
WHEREAS, The Second Alarmers were born on a chilly February night in 1921, when a group of local residents joined together to provide coffee and refreshments for firefighters working in the harsh conditions; and
WHEREAS, What began then as a “canteen service” to deliver refreshments to firefighters and police has now expanded to include generators, flood lighting, radio battery exchanges, heating and cooling supplies and equipment, and replacement clothing, as well as EMS and mass-casualty response capabilities; and
WHEREAS, The Second Alarmers cover over 400 responses a year and members are available for dispatch 24 hours, seven days a week; and
WHEREAS, The Second Alarmers lent vital support to first responders during notable emergencies and events such as the derailment of Amtrak Train 188, Hurricane Sandy, and the visit of Pope Francis; and
WHEREAS, As the Second Alarmers mark a century of steadfast service to our City’s first responders, the Council of the City of Philadelphia is proud to honor the many volunteers who lift up those who protect and serve our community each day; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes, honors, and celebrates the Philadelphia Second Alarmers on the occasion of their 100th Anniversary; and
RESOLVED FURTHER, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Second Alarmers Association, further evidencing the sincere admiration and gratitude of this legislative body.
End