To the editor:

Happily and luckily, our beautiful island is not assaulted by the devastating fires in California and disasters elsewhere.

But what these events should also tell us is the meaning of those folks called “first responders,” and we are fortunate to have some of the best right here should we ever be hit not only by those massive events but because we already have the response of a fire department and police department, both of whom quietly (despite an occasional siren) to all sorts of medical and other emergencies and get little credit for their work. And it could often as not feature unexpected dangers even in this community.

Some weeks ago, I was requested and did compose a proposed resolution for the council to present in honor of these fine and necessary people. Unfortunately, the resolution received far too little attention, so my hope is this small commentary will help to remind us all of our good fortune.

JOSEPH J. HONICK

Bainbridge Island