They’re called out of their warm, comfy homes on cold winter’s nights. They sacrifice nights and weekends to study and train on the latest techniques, often for no pay and little thanks. Time and time again, they put themselves in harm’s way. They deal with frantic situations when people are at their worst. And, in many cases, they do it all for people they don’t know.

They are the first responders, the men and women who are there when we need them most. If we’re lucky, we’ll never need their help. But if there’s an accident, a fire, a tornado or other disaster—big or small—they will be always be there for you, just a phone call away.

Some are paid, others are volunteers. Some fight fires. Some attend to car accidents. Others tend to the sick and injured. But they all have a common bond: An overwhelming desire to help their friends and neighbors. They don’t do it for the glory. They don’t do it for praise. They do it because it has to be done.

This week, with the help of our loyal advertisers, we pay tribute to our first responders: the firefighters, rescue, police, dispatchers and others who are on call on a moment’s notice. Take a minute to read their stories, look over some of the pictures from years past and reflect on the sacrifices that these special people have made and continue to make on a daily basis.

And the next time you see a firefighter at the grocery store or run across a rescue squad member at the ball game, let them know you appreciate all they do for you.