Earlier this week, Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly addressed the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. to discuss the Department’s priorities.
The partnership between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the IAFF is critical. Together, we work to support our strong, resilient communities.
Secretary Kelly stressed the importance of supporting the Nation’s firefighters who protect their hometowns. Secretary Kelly specifically cited the need for emotional support and highlighted the grand opening of the IAFF’s Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery in Upper Marlboro, Maryland outside of Washington, D.C. This inpatient facility is staffed with professionals who are highly trained to understand the unique challenges and stressor of firefighters’ day-to-day lives.
During his remarks, Secretary Kelly also highlighted the importance of this partnership between local firefighters and the Department of Homeland Security. The security of our Nation, Secretary Kelly said, is too large and complex for just one Department to handle alone. Therefore, we continue to rely on the expertise and input from state, local, tribal, and territorial partners in a whole community approach.
Secretary Kelly thanked the IAFF members for their longstanding commitment over the past 99 years to the support of firefighters and keeping citizens safe.