First responders lay their lives on the line to protect their communities and they are a true example of the kind of bravery that our nation benefits from. There are many different ways Americans show their appreciation and support for first responders, from parades and discounts to remembrance gardens.
With spring around the corner, the gardens are blooming and in prime condition for everyone to attend and appreciate. These locations serve as a tribute to those who were lost in the line of duty. The gardens can last hundreds of years if maintained well, and can also serve as a place for survivors to heal and others to spend a nice day. Let's take a look at some of our nation's first responder remembrance gardens.
Georgetown Community Hospital
The town of Georgetown, Kentucky recently unveiled a new garden commemorating first responders. In March 2022, the community gathered to show their support of the First Responders Memorial Garden. The garden came to fruition thanks to a partnership between the hospital and several other groups in the community. It has 5,000 daffodils that the team came together to plant in remembrance of local police, fire, EMS, and others who respond first to community emergencies.
"What a beautiful way to honor the first responders of our community," Georgetown Mayor Tom Prather told LEX18. "I know a lot of hard work went into this project, and I want to thank everyone who worked so hard to make this happen."
Garden of Honor
The Garden of Honor began as a project by an Eagle Scout, Hayes Lang, in Farmville, VA. His project aimed at memorializing first responders and veterans. With the help of other Eagle Scout members, the cemetery and community businesses, the Garden of Honor opened on June 14 of last year, after three years of preparation. Among the garden's plants are bronze sculptures of a fire helmet and police cap, which are true to size. Now, the area is not only a pleasant way to spend time outdoors but also reminds visitors of the service that first responders offer our country.
Memorial Garden in NY
When you think about remembrance gardens, New York's Memorial Garden probably comes to mind because it is one of the most famous examples. The garden commemorates those first responders and Port Authority employees who made extreme sacrifices during the terrible events of 9/11. The plaque that sits in the memorial garden reads "On the 20th anniversary of September 11, we dedicate this memorial garden in remembrance of the heroic first responders and rescue and recovery workers of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey."
With hundreds of visitors every day, the garden serves as a reminder to tourists and locals alike of the sacrifices made. This is a perfect example of what a remembrance garden should provide to the community.
Take part
Many of these gardens are always looking for volunteers to help take care of the garden by sweeping the walkways, weeding around the plants or helping plant any new contributions. For example, the 9/11 Reflection Garden has plenty of volunteer opportunities for people who live near the location. Most locations also welcome flowers, plants or other arrangements to adorn the area. Even if you aren't sure if you know how to create a memorial garden yourself, taking the time to visit the garden this spring and summer is a way to pay tribute.