Irish Echo Honors Senator Murphy with First Responder Ambassador Award

New York, NY - As a former EMT with more than seven years of experience, Senator Terrence Murphy understands the selfless dedication and courage a first responder needs in order to serve their community. Since becoming a State Senator in 2014, Murphy has made the safety of first responders a priority, and, in turn, has been recognized by numerous community organizations for sponsoring life-saving legislation.
 
On November 10th, the Irish Echo, the oldest Irish-American newspaper in the nation, honored Senator Murphy's work on behalf of firefighters and EMS personnel by presenting him with their 2017 First Responder Ambassador Award.
 
The annual awards event, held November 10th at the Manhattan Club at Rosie O'Grady's in Manhattan, paid tribute to the men and women who have played a vital role in serving their communities and have added an honorable chapter to the story of the Irish in America.  Past honorees include firefighters, paramedics and public figures from as far away as Nebraska, Missouri, Illinois, and Arizona.
 
"It is an honor to be recognized by one of the oldest and most respected newspapers in America as well as being able to stand beside the heroes in our EMS and Fire Departments, men and women who put their lives on the line every day," said Senator Murphy. "The legislation I have sponsored speaks for itself. Our first responders often find themselves in the midst of stressful, dangerous situations. I will continue to advocate for legislation that protects their safety and enhances their ability to successfully do their jobs."
 
The Community Heroes Protection Act is one of the many pieces of legislation supported by Senator Murphy. The bill (S1114A), which passed the Senate in May, designates offenses against law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel as hate crimes. Additionally, Senator Murphy co-sponsored S1411, which expands the existing coverage to volunteer firefighters diagnosed with certain cancers.
 
Senator Murphy also secured over $1.8 million in Emergency Communications Grants, enabling local governments to expand their ability to communicate, exchange valuable data, and streamline information through their systems to enhance collaboration and assist first responders.
 
Founded in 1928, the Irish Echo is the most widely read Irish-American newspaper in the U.S. with a readership of 100,000.