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The residents of Taylor, Missouri, wanted to show their gratitude to the first responders that assist their community every day. Members of the Wick Road Baptist Church organized the first-ever First Responders Appreciation Day.

Service honors its community's heroes
The leaders of the church had read about a similar event in Virginia and wanted to provide the same type of day for their firefighters, EMTs and policemen who put their lives on the line to ensure that the community is safe. 

"It was just a gesture to show our appreciation for a job well done," Pastor Dan Broaddus told The News-Herald. "In every profession, there are some crazy people. We're seeing that on the television news. We realize that all of our freedom and safety and security comes from these first responders."

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A touching service for many
The turnout was a success, with over 40 policemen, auxiliary officers and firefighters showing up to the church's service. Broaddus explained to The News-Herald that a few of the first responders had to leave the service to attend to emergencies. He said that it was a real reminder of the dedication these men and women have to protect the community around the clock. 

Many of the residents also provided meals for the servicemembers, recognizing that emergency responders are not always able to indulge in a hot meal when they have to drop everything and bolt to the scene of a crime or put out a burning building. Extra meals were made so the departments could keep them stored for officers whenever needed.

The service was touching for many church members who had lost a loved one who died in the line of duty. The day was dedicated to these men and women and those who sacrificed their lives.