When I was growing up, my uncle served as a law enforcement officer in Austin. And to this day, I can still remember the sense of awe I felt every time I saw him in uniform or ride away on his police motorcycle.

“He’s important,” I would think. Not just because he was my uncle, but because he spent his day helping others and watching over our community.

It wasn’t until I got a bit older that the full impact of his profession – and selflessness to serve complete strangers day-in and day-out – would hit me, making the sense of admiration I felt as a kid only grow stronger. It inspired me to serve as well, leading me to become a Tank Platoon and Mortar Platoon leader with the U.S. Army where I spent 5 years before joining AT&T.

I’m proud to work for a company that holds a deep and long-standing appreciation for the important work that our first responders do. 

We’re thrilled to see a national day of recognition to honor and celebrate all first responders that serve across the country. For those that answer our calls of distress, show up in our greatest time of need and are willing to put it all on the line to fulfill your mission and keep us safe, you have all our thanks – although “thank you” will never be enough.