The Florida Highway Patrol will be recognizing and commending the deserving women and men in our Regional Communications Centers for the job they do each and every day during National Telecommunications Week April 12 through April 18, 2009

The trying time and events that are currently happening in the state, nation and world makes the duties performed by these members even more difficult; however, they perform them in a very knowledgeable and professional manner. Every day, millions of people depend on the skill, expertise and commitment of public safety telecommunications professionals who help save countless lives by responding to emergency calls, dispatching emergency professionals and equipment and providing moral support to residents and visitors in distress.

Many times these “unsung heroes” are overlooked or taken for granted. Our Duty Officers and Duty Officer Supervisors do a tremendous job for the public safety community and are the lifeline between our troopers and other state law enforcement officers working the road, the motoring public, and their safety. These telecommunications officers are known as the “voice without a face” to the motoring public and are normally the first to receive the call when assistance is needed.

Captain Rick Kelley (Jacksonville) and Sergeant David Dupont (Palatka) cook up some great burgers, dogs, and fish for all to enjoy.