AKRON, OH — With this stamp, the U.S. Postal Service recognizes the men and women —including firefighters, law enforcement officers and emergency medical service professionals — who respond to critical situations with skill, dedication and uncommon bravery.

The stamp dedication will take place at 10:00 a.m. October 10 at the Akron Public Library 60 South High Street, Akron, OH 44326.  The event is free and open to the public.

The digital illustration on this stamp is a symbolic scene that shows three first responders in profile, facing right, as they race into action.   First is a firefighter carrying an axe, second is an Emergency Medical Service (EMS) worker with an emergency bag, and third is a law-enforcement officer shining a flashlight. The dark background and signs of smoke around the figures suggest the wide range of situations that demand the immediate attention of a first responder.

Fires, medical emergencies, accidents and violent crimes require us to look to those who possess the training and knowledge to treat the injured, rescue the endangered, and restore safety and order. For many, responding to emergencies is their full-time occupation, while others are highly trained volunteers. First responders are found throughout society, from small townships to the federal government, and their ranks often include a wide range of law enforcement professionals and public safety personnel, from ski patrollers, air marshals and transit police officers to park rangers and fish and game wardens.

Artist Brian Stauffer worked with art director and designer Antonio Alcalá and designer Ricky Altizer to create this stamp. Stauffer has been a contributing artist to the New York Times, Time magazine, The New Yorker, Rolling Stone and more than 300 other publications worldwide. His illustrations bridge both the traditional and digital realms and are best known for their conceptual take on social issues.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

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