heroes of 999 launch
29.09.08 Scottish Sun
IT’S BEEN 70 years since Scotland’s 999 service was launched - saving thousands of lives.
And to mark the anniversary Scotland’s 999 heroes will be honoured at a star-studded bash on October 30th.
The unsung heroes have risked thousands of lives over the years responding to emergency calls.
Tragically dozens more heroes have died trying to rescue those in danger.
Now it’s time to celebrate Scotland’s bravest and finest.
Men and women from the Police, Fire, Ambulance/Paramedics, Offshore Rescue/Coastguard, Police and Rescue Dogs, Mountain Rescue, will be honoured at the Heroes of 999 event.
In particular Heroes of 999 will be remembering the tragedies at Lockerbie, Ibrox, Cheapside Street and Piper Alpha.
Each emergency service will receive an award and Scottish Sun readers can also nominate their own hero to receive a special award.
Whether you were pulled from a blazing house by a fireman, airlifted off a mountain or given the kiss of life by a paramedic, this is your chance to say thank you to the people who saved your life.
The unique awards event has been praised by politicians and celebs.
Justice secretary Kenny MacAskill said: “The people who work in our police, fire and ambulance services do a fantastic job day in day out.
“They provide important services to people who are often frightened and in danger. Frequently going above and beyond the call of duty and sometimes continuing to help while off duty.
“It’s high time some of these heroes get the public praise they deserve. That’s why I’m delighted to support the 999 heroes award.
“The awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the fantastic work of our emergency services and the individuals who help to make sure the whole of Scotland can be proud of them.”
Taggart star John Michie said: “It’s a great idea to celebrate 70 years of the emergency services. These people do a fantastic job and should never be taken for granted. They deserve recognition for the work they do and they deserve a big celebration too!”
Glasgow terror attacks hero John Smeaton added: "Those 999 guys deserve any recognition that they get.
"I saw first hand exactly the dangers they face and if it wasn't for their professionalism things could have been so much worse at Glasgow Airport.
"We wouldn't be able to sleep in our beds at night if we didn't have these brave emergency people."
Top Labour politician Lord Foulkes said: "This is a great new initiative from The Scottish Sun and one that is long overdue.
"I had reason to dial 999 when my wife suffered a brain haemorrhage. The response of the ambulance service was amazing and she survived.
"I think everyone has good reason to be grateful for the work that they do."
Rugby legend Kenny Logan was thrilled our 999 heroes are to be recognised with these awards.
He said: "I have so much respect for the people who put their lives on the line and I'm a big fan of what they do for us.
"I think it's important these people get the recognition they deserve. There are countless awards nights for sports, television and film stars so it's about time we had one for the 999 heroes."
To nominate your hero go to www.thescottishsun.co.uk/heroes, email heroesof999@the-sun.co.uk or write to The Scottish Sun, Heroes of 999, Guildhall, 57 Queen Street, Glasgow, G1 3EN.
