AUSTIN, Texas — First responders and local leaders gathered at Riverbend Church in Austin Wednesday morning to recognize first responders throughout central Texas.
The Blessing of the Badges ceremony, hosted by Riverbend Church and the Central Texas Public Safety Commission, gathered dozens of first responders from across the Austin area to commemorate the work that they do to keep communities safe throughout the region.
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Austin Mayor Kirk Watson delivered the opening remarks, joined by area command staff and community faith leaders to give blessings to first responders.
“Blessing of the Badges is a time to come together as a community to show our gratitude and support of first responders,” Mayor Watson said. “I am honored to be a part of this ceremony and speak on behalf of the City of Austin in recognition of our brave women and men who protect Central Texas communities.”
“First responders are at the core of our mission and we are dedicated to supporting our community’s heroes in more ways than one,” said Ashley Copeland, chief operating officer of CTPSC. “Blessing of the Badges is our way of showing that gratitude for first responders is more than words—it’s a community united in recognition and support.”