How The First Responder Institute Works

This First Responder Institute has created nationally recognized awards for valor and heroism in the service of the First Responders’ life saving mission. No federal, state or local funds are required because the First Responder Institute prioritizes using locally donated dollars to honor local first responders. Prior to the work of the Institute, there was only one nationally recognized award for First Responders; the Medal of Valor. We have created complimentary awards for heroism and exceptional service “above and beyond the call of duty.” Awards are also given for direct participation in significant events, for improving security of the homeland and for exemplary service. These awards respect the organizational cultures, traditions and local authority of First Responders and leverages their existing chain of command. The Institute’s website, combined with an aggressive outreach campaign using social networks and traditional media will educate the community about our work. This will empower people in the community to make small individual donations to simultaneously honor their local first responders and to endow the Homeland Heroes Fund.

Mission Statement

The mission of the First Responder Institute is to recognize the service & sacrifice of all of our law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs & Paramedics~ our American First Responders.

Board of Directors

  • William Finegan, President
  • Michael Finley, Treasurer
  • Grace Burns, Secretary
  • Hugh Burns, esq
  • James Bond
  • John J. Shimp
  • Patrick Creed

Board of Advisors

  • Chief Ronnie Coleman, California State Fire Marshall (ret’d)
  • Lieutenant Frank Borelli, editor www.officer.com
  • Chief Inspector Anthony “Irish Tony” Boyle, Philadelphia Police Department
  • Police Officer Louis P. Cesarone, EOD, EMT-P, Philadelphia Police Department (ret’d)
  • Assistant Chief Christopher Kiskeravage, Allentown Fire Department
  • Corporal Brian Haughton, MS, EMT-B, Philadelphia Police Department
  • Chief Michael Carroll, West Goshen Police Department (Past-President International Association of Chief of Police)
  • Police Officer Christopher Clemens, Chief Pilot, Police Helicopter, Philadelphia Police Department
  • Chief Scott Bahner, EMT-P, Bucks County Rescue Squad