From Harford County government:
The U. S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently recognized the Harford County Division of Emergency Operations for the work of the Citizen Corps Council. The award is the 2010 FEMA Region III Leading by Example Award.
In a statement announcing the award, MaryAnn Tierney, Region III Administrator for FEMA stated, “Harford County Citizen Corps developed and executed an astounding 37 separate preparedness initiatives during the month of September. Particularly impressive was the quality and impact of those events.” Ms. Tierney further commented, “Harford Citizen Corps Council and its partners are to be commended for these and multiple other efforts. It is this shared spirit of collaboration that is taking community preparedness to new heights in your county.”
Following the tragic events that occurred on September 11, 2011, state and local government officials have worked to provide increased opportunities for citizens to become part of protecting the homeland thereby support local first responders. In January 2002, President George Bush launched Citizen Corps, to capture the spirit of community service which emerged following the terrorists attacks. Thus Citizen Corps was created to help coordinate volunteer activities that help make communities safer and better prepared to respond to emergency situations should they occur.
The Harford County Citizen Corps, which was initially formed approximately eight years ago, was restructured and established in 2008. Under the leadership of Reed Correll, an Emergency Planner with the Harford County Division of Emergency Operations, the Corps now consists of 25 organizations. The Harford County Citizens Corps was cited for their extraordinary efforts during National Preparedness Month in September 2010.
The 2010 FEMA Region III Leading by Example Award pays tribute to the Harford County Citizen Corps Council for “dedicated service and tireless commitment to engaging and educating Harford County residents about what it really means to be prepared for emergencies.”
Commenting on the recent award, County Executive David R. Craig stated, “We are grateful for the recognition the U. S. Department of Homeland Security and FEMA have bestowed upon the Harford County Citizen Corps Council, and especially the leadership of our Division of Emergency Operations Center. Harford County is fortunate to have the dedication, commitment and selfless service of the outstanding volunteers who comprise the Citizen Corps, which helps make our community a safer place to live,” the County Executive stated.
Gary Vernon says
Kudos to Reed Correll for his tireless efforts and dedication to the cause over the last year.