The Global Foundation for First Responders held the Inaugural Blue & Red Tie Gala honoring first responders and those in the industry, who have displayed courage, community leadership and enthusiasm in the line of duty. Each year the foundation holds fund raisers to raise monies for the needs of families left behind after a first responder is killed in the line of duty.
This year the focus was expanded to include honoring those who serve as an example of the foundation’s mission of service. Awards were presented to: Man of the Year: Patrick Ryder, Police Commissioner, Nassau County Police Department; Woman of the Year: Janet Ambrisco, Special Agent, Federal Bureau of Investigation; Industry Person of the Year: Keith Slotter, Vice President of Security, Jet Blue Airways.
The evening’s event was held in the historic Carltun venue in Eisenhower Park where a huge American flag was hoisted by firefighter units to welcome the guests.
Honoree FBI Janet Ambrisco shared thoughts during her acceptance speech saying that “ the power of influence impacts the choices with each other”. This sentiment is realized by her work with the Explorer youth program is which she is a mentor.
The evenings activities included an outstanding performance by The Nassau County Police Emerald Society Pipes and Drums; dancing to Johnny Avino classic smooth sounds and experiencing a Las Vegas like atmosphere where guests played casino games with chits in order to benefit the foundations recipients and a chance to win donated raffle prizes.
