As an NYPD officer on that day, the scenes of devastation at the World Trade Center were unlike anything I could have imagined despite my Police and Military training. The pain, fear, and loss were overwhelming. Yet, amidst the tragedy, something extraordinary emerged. The outpouring of compassion was unlike anything I’d ever witnessed. The citizens of New York, strangers from across the nation, and even people from all corners of the world rallied together. They offered support, aid, and, most importantly, a deep sense of humanity. It wasn’t just about rescue efforts; it was about holding on to the hope, offering a shoulder to cry on, and showing that even in the darkest hour, we weren’t alone. That unwavering support for the victims, the service members, and for us, the first responders, will forever be etched in my memory. It’s a testament to the unwavering spirit of humanity, a spirit that transcends borders and backgrounds. It’s a reminder that even in the face of immense tragedy, compassion can light the way, and the kindness of strangers can become a beacon of hope in our darkest moments.
“THE SAMARITAN FIRST RESPONDERS SOCIETY” 9/11/2001.
This overwhelming compassion for others has awaken a national social response and the creation of what we have referred to as “The Samaritan Movement” or a ” Call for Action” to individuals who share in the dedication and compassion for humanity.
The Samaritan First Responders Society-SFRS (‘the Society’):
The Mission:
The Samaritan First Responders Society-SFRS (‘the Society’) envisions a world in which first responders, samaritans, veterans, the elderly, and those individuals who rescue animals are Rewarded on a nationally televised SFRS Awards Show or Program. These prestigious Awards are presented to honor samaritans, first responders and other individuals in a highly publicized ceremony which gives much needed recognition to these brave and courageous individuals for their dedication, and self-sacrificing commitment to others in showing their ‘Samaritan Efforts’ often at the cost of their own lives.
The SFRS- Society’s unique organizational structure which combines the compassion & dedication of first responders, samaritans and veterans to use their expertise and skills to work with other SFRS Volunteers groups to form local emergency ” Crisis & Support Teams(CSTs)”. These local CSTs or auxiliary emergency response units- which are community-based will only be activated at the aftermath of a crisis or disaster.
The SAMARITAN FIRST RESPONDERS SOCIETY (SFRS) also provides direct financial aid and other support in the form of social services to first responders, samaritans, veterans, the elderly and other service men and women and their families as a result of their participation
The SFRS Society will also acquire or purchase multi-purpose community centers or buildings which will provide emergency shelter, to store much needed supplies-food, medicine, equipment etc.. as well as, serve other community functions that are approved by the SFRS Board of Directors..
National Emergency Relief
The SFRS organization will create local “Crisis & Support Teams”(CST) of with at least (1) One Crisis & Support Team that will formed in each state within the United States. These CST Units will support the local Emergency Response Units as a SFRS Auxiliary Emergency Response Team that provides support as a Backup group of Volunteers working with a retired first responders, or veteran as the Team Leader or Incident Commander.
The SFRS CST of volunteers will Only Response to a Local Crisis or aftermath of a Disaster with the Approval of SFRS Organization Headquarters & the Local SFRS Incident Commander at the scene of the incident.
International Emergency Relief
The SAMARITAN FIRST RESPONDERS SOCIETY (SFRS) To establish an international emergency relief teams (IERT) when qualified and experienced first responders, veterans and others in the field of Emergency Response has completed the application process and a minimum number of qualified SFRS Volunteers have meet with approval. Please note that the SFRS Organization must comply within the guidelines and laws governing that country. Moreover, each applicant must pass a Background Check and be in Good Standing with a dedication and compassion for other human beings, as well as, the welfare of animals.
Organization:
The Samaritan First Responders Society-SFRS (‘the Society’) is a IRS Code 501(c)(3) tax-Exempt Charitable Nonprofit Organization, Incorporated in Wake County, North Carolina. The Society is duly licensed as a nonprofit charity by the North Carolina Secretary of State. The Society was established in 2024 by its Founder & Chairman Mr. Calvin L. Burton Sr., who formed this society after spending over 24 years of hardships faced by himself, as well as, other first responders, samaritans, veterans, and others who participated at the World-Trade Center, and the other locations of disasters on that day, and who still suffer long-term health conditions that will also affect other first responders, samaritans and veterans given the very dangerous nature of the duties and responsibilities associated with the work of caring for others; Including those individuals caring for the welfare of service animals. We must face the facts, that at sometime in our lives we all will need some assistance; especially those of us on the front lines.