Trending Topics

First responders honored for heroic efforts in deadly D.C. midair collision

More than 70 first responders were recognized for their work during the collision near Ronald Reagan National Airport, highlighting the crucial role of regional emergency cooperation

WASHINGTON — First responders and officials were honored for their bravery in the aftermath of the tragic midair collision over the Potomac River on Jan. 29.

The recognition was held during the Council of Governments monthly meeting on March 12 where officials highlighted the extraordinary efforts of those who responded to the disaster, WJLA reported.

The collision, which involved an American Airlines plane and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter, claimed 67 lives. More than 300 first responders, representing over 90 agencies across the DMV and beyond, worked tirelessly during search and recovery operations in freezing river conditions.


Incident command challenges are heightened in a region replete with jurisdictional anomalies

Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela A. Smith commended her department’s response, emphasizing the relentless work of MPD’s harbor patrol in recovering victims to provide closure for families. She also acknowledged the emotional toll the tragedy took on responders, stating, “No moment or amount of training could prepare us for what we encountered that night and the weeks to follow.”

Local fire and police chiefs also praised the swift regional cooperation, made possible by the National Capital Region Mutual Aid Agreement, which facilitates emergency support between neighboring jurisdictions.


The O’Haras met D.C. firefighters who found their son’s body and the rookie firefighter and Marine who stood guard over him
Trending
The bipartisan FEMA Review Council, now co-chaired by Kristi Noem and Pete Hegseth, will lead efforts in reforming and streamlining the nation’s emergency response system
Understanding the origin, meaning and controversy related to the thin red line flags
While completing fire academy training is a rigorous challenge that’s not for everyone, it’s a necessity if you want to enter the rewarding field of firefighting
IAFF President Ed Kelly says talks with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have heightened attention on saving some firefighter health and safety programs

Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.