Next time you go to the post office, look for the new Forever Stamp that honors first responders – firefighters, police officers, and other emergency response personnel – who risk their lives every day to keep us safe.

A dedication ceremony for the stamp was held today at San Diego Miramar College inside the Fire Technology Center. Present were local first responders who epitomize the skill, dedication, and uncommon bravery that the stamp celebrates. The stamp is an illustration of three first responders in profile, facing right, as they race into action.

Honoring Those on the Front Lines

Those who were recognized at today’s event include:

• San Diego Fire Engine 44 and Battalion 7, along with Fire Captain and Miramar College Fire Program Director Darren Hall;
• San Diego Police Assistant Chief Sandy Albrektsen;
• San Diego Police Captain Al Leos; USPS Executive James Olson;
• And 2003 Paradise Fire victim Allyson Watson.

Miramar College has provided fire, EMT and police training since its inception in 1969. The community college is home to the Regional Public Safety Training Institute which serves as the police academy for several local agencies including the San Diego Police Department and San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.

The San Diego Fire- Rescue Department, and several other local agencies, use Miramar College for their academy and Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).

Providing On-Going Support

Our Community Relations team was pleased to join today’s ceremony. As a long-time partner of local public safety agencies, we know first-hand the contributions they make to our community’s safety and well-being.

In appreciation of the work Miramar College does to provide education and training for the next generation of first responders, we were on hand today to present a donation to the college’s training program to benefit our region.

To learn more about the training program, visit: http://www.sdmiramar.edu/programs/fire-protection-technology.