Firefighters attending the Corey Comperatore’s funeral on Friday, July 19, estimated more than 150 emergency response vehicles came to be a part of the procession.

Their significant presence sends a message, according to Kris Bowser, assistant chief of Herman Volunteer Fire Company, to the world where Butler County is now in the spotlight that the firefighting community is a family.

We here in Butler County know this well. We know how our first responders — community heroes from all walks of life — show up when there’s a need. On Friday, they did not let Corey or his family down.

Corey died Saturday, July 13, at the rally for former President Donald Trump, where he shielded his wife and daughter from stray bullets.

Many of the first responders who attended the Friday funeral did not know Corey. But these professionals — many who are volunteers — know the their jobs come with a risk.

“We're here to show support for Corey and the Comperatores,” Bowser said.

That’s what first responders do.

They are from a fraternity that gives up their family time to help other families in need. From fires to medical emergencies to rescue situations, they step up and serve the community.

They are there for their neighbors and Friday they stood for one of their own.

— TL