NEW YORK — The United Responder Shield, a seven-foot, 300-pound tribute to first responders, will embark on the URS250Tour, a 2,400-mile cross-country journey designed to honor first responders, military personnel and national unity.
Created by contemporary Terrazzo artist Allen Sedaka and inspired by volunteer responder Bruce Schmutter, the shield was developed to recognize responders who lost their lives in service as well as those who continue protecting communities. Schmutter became a volunteer responder following the 9/11 terrorist attacks and later founded the Actionable Innovation Institute.
The tour will begin in New York and make stops in Indianapolis, Wichita, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Albuquerque, San Angelo, Oklahoma City, Nashville, Virginia and Washington, D.C. Events along the route will include ceremonies and opportunities for the public to view the shield.
One featured destination is the Hall of Flame Museum in Phoenix, which will serve as the southwestern stop on the tour. The museum preserves Rescue 4 and other World Trade Center artifacts. A public event titled “Meet Your Heroes, Inspire the Future Responders” is planned in conjunction with the tour.
Additionally, the NFPA has selected the United Responder Shield as a symbol of patriotism and unity in connection with the nation’s 250th birthday and the upcoming 25-year remembrance of 9/11, according to an announcement from the Actionable Innovation Institute.
The United Responder Shield has previously appeared at Memorial Stair Climbs, Nassau Coliseum, UBS Arena and other events attended by responders, survivors and families.
Organizers said the project is intended to recognize all responders and branches of the military through a shared symbol of service and sacrifice.
Contact Schmutter for more information.
