Rep. Jamie Kiel, Sen. Larry Stutts and the Alabama Forestry Association hosted a Back the Blue event to thank first responders and show their appreciation with free hotdogs and hamburgers at the A.W. Todd Centre Sept. 1.

Employees from Alabama Farm Credit did the grilling. First responders from Franklin, Lauderdale and Colbert counties attended the event.

“They always work hard, but especially during the pandemic, they’ve had a lot of extra stress, and we just wanted to take this opportunity to thank them for they do,” explained Kiel. “This is just a small expression of that gratitude.”

“We’re very appreciative of all the first responders and the work they do each and every day,” agreed Russellville Mayor David Grissom.

“What a success this Back the Blue event has been in Russellville, serving almost 300 first responders,” said Anna Morgan Duke, grassroots coordinator of the Alabama Forestry Association. “AFA enjoyed getting to meet, serve and thank these hardworking people who work so diligently for all of us every day.”

“We’re thankful for all the first responders,” added Sen. Larry Stutts, “and glad to do something to help show our gratitude.”