Since the start of 2018, at least 43 law enforcement officers and 34 firefighters across the United States have been killed in the line of duty. These numbers weigh heavily on local resident Dr. Warren Herring, who for the second consecutive year has put together an appreciation luncheon for all county and city first responders.

Sponsored by the Limestone County Republican Party, Herring and a mixed group of volunteers from from Lindsay Lane Baptist Church East and the the local Republican Party will prepare and serve a hot meal for local law enforcement, city fire, 911-dispatch and volunteer fire department workers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday at the Athens-Limestone Rescue Squad.

Herring said the luncheon, which will feature Southern favorites like pulled pork sandwiches, baked beans and potato salad, is his way of showing gratitude to those who put their lives on the line every day.

“Our first responders don’t get paid enough to do the job they do,” he said. “We ask them to make life and death decisions and go into dangerous situations on our behalf.”

“They are the most wonderful people,” he added. “The luncheon is a small thing, but it’s my way of saying thank you.”

Last year, about 45 responders showed up for the appreciation luncheon, and Herring sent out about 40 more meals to those who couldn’t leave their posts. He expects an even larger crowd this year.

Alabama Senate District 2 candidate Tom Butler of Madison plans to be on hand to visit with responders during the luncheon. Butler has been a vocal supporter of Alabama’s first responders since 1992 when he was resuscitated by members of the Madison City Fire Department after having a heart attack while jogging.

“He (Butler) probably wouldn’t have made it if the fire department didn’t get there when they did,” Herring said. “He is just one example in this community of someone who has been saved by a first responder.”

Herring said they can always use more volunteers for the event, especially anyone willing to donate a batch of homemade banana pudding. Those interested should contact Herring at 256-431-5686.