AP Photo/Elaine Thompson
When the World Health Organization announced that COVID-19 had escalated into a global pandemic, first responders readied themselves for the unknown. They battled PPE shortages, overwhelmed hospitals and a frightened nation.
To the families, friends and colleagues of those that lost their lives battling the virus, we are heartbroken with you.
This video honors the memory of these dedicated public health professionals.
Rachel Engel is an award-winning journalist and the senior editor of FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. In addition to her regular editing duties, Engel seeks to tell the heroic, human stories of first responders and the importance of their work. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma, and began her career as a freelance writer, focusing on government and military issues. Engel joined Lexipol in 2015 and has since reported on issues related to public safety. Engel lives in Wichita, Kansas. She can be reached via email.
