Duke pays tribute to emergency workers during 999 Heroes event
THE DUKE of Cambridge has led national tributes honouring the “sacrifices” of emergency workers during the Covid- 19 outbreak, in an online celebration of the country’s “999 Heroes”.
William was joined by Health Secretary Matt Hancock, and the First Minister of Northern Ireland Arlene Foster and her counterparts from Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, and Wales, Mark Drakeford, for the annual Emergency Services Festival of Thanksgiving.
The multi- faith event, held online due to the pandemic, commemorates 999 staff who have died in the line of duty, and this year a number of NHS and emergency workers who have died after contracting Covid- 19 while on duty.
The Duke, who has worked as an air ambulance helicopter pilot, said in a pre- recorded video message: “This year, more than ever, we have been repeatedly
reminded of the sacrifices made by all those in the emergency responder community, as they work tirelessly to protect us against Covid- 19 and keep the country going in the most challenging circumstances.
“Having had the privilege of working alongside emergency responders, I’ve always been struck by the remarkable can-do attitudein the face of even the grave st of emergencies. They showcase the very best that our country has to offer and this is never more apparent than at times like these.
“Tragically, some will pay the ultimate price as a result of their efforts in the line of duty, while others will experience lasting effects on their physical health or mental well- being. We all have a responsibility to do what we can to support this community and to remember their efforts.”
During the online festival, delayed by more than three hours due to technical problems, the audience watched the Blue Light Choir, whose members are emergency workers and supporters, perform from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Station.
In his video message, Mr Hancock highlighted the efforts of the National Emergency Services Memorial, which is raising at least £ 3.2m to build the 999 Cenotaph – a national memorial dedicated to all emergency services personnel and service animals.