Every year on October 28, National First Responders Day gives us a moment to pause and recognize the people who step forward when others are in need. Firefighters, police officers, paramedics and 9-1-1 telecommunicators are often the first connection in an emergency. They are the calm voice, the steady guide and the critical link between a developing crisis and the administration of help.
At Motorola Solutions, we are proud to support this community through the technology we build and the stories they share. For us, National First Responders Day is a chance to reflect on the mission that drives everything we do and connect with the brave individuals who deliver on the promise of that mission in their communities.
One of the most meaningful ways we celebrate that mission is by lifting up the voices of the next generation.
A tribute through art
This fall, we partnered with NCT9-1-1 to host the second annual 9-1-1 Heroes Art Contest. We expanded the contest to K–12 students across North Central Texas and invited students to create original artwork honoring first responders in their communities.
To help tie entries to the theme, we encouraged each submission to include either a 9-1-1 telecommunicator or a symbol that represents a telecommunicator or PSAP. Many students chose to include the full spectrum of public safety professionals, including firefighters, EMS personnel and law enforcement officers.
For this year’s contest, more than 600 students submitted artwork. Many also recorded short videos describing what inspired their pieces. Their words were thoughtful and honest, reminding us just how clearly young people recognize the importance of those who protect and serve.
Celebrating the winners
We are proud to bring two student-inspired murals to life, each one a celebration of community, creativity and the people who answer the call.
The first mural is based on the winning artwork from Landrie Reeves, a sixth grader at Stafford Elementary. Her drawing stood out for its heartfelt message and detailed depiction of first responders working together, including fire, EMS, police and 9-1-1 telecommunicators. That piece is the inspiration for a public mural in Italy, Texas, Landrie’s hometown, where it now stands as a personal and powerful tribute to the profession she chose to honor through her art.
The second mural is in Bridgeport, Texas, and is the result of a unique collaboration. Submissions by students from Miss Dickerson’s art class at Bridgeport Middle School were thoughtfully combined into one cohesive design that was brought to life on the historic Bridgeport Hospital building by a local muralist.
While Landrie’s mural reflects the individual vision of a single young artist and the Bridgeport mural is a collaborative tribute, both honor first responders in different yet equally meaningful ways.
Landrie Reeves cuts the ribbon to officially unveil her custom community mural in Italy, Texas.
Community members and first responders at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Bridgeport community mural.
We are proud to announce another winner of the 9-1-1 Heroes Art Contest:
Selene M., an eighth grader from Dublin Secondary School.
Selene's artwork was selected for its creativity, emotional depth and a clear message of unity among first responders. It captures the spirit of courage, collaboration and care that defines emergency response work.
The winning piece will be transformed into a public mural in North Texas, with installation scheduled for 2026. New this year, the student will also receive a scholarship contribution from Motorola Solutions in support of their future education and creative journey.
The winning artwork, submitted by Selene M. for the 9-1-1 Heroes Art Contest.
In addition to the mural winner, we’re thrilled to feature the top 10 entries selected for our special First Responder Coloring Book. These pieces, created by students in grades K–5, will be shared at public safety events and in classrooms across Texas.
Take a look at their incredible work below. Each image celebrates the heroes behind the scenes and on the front lines.
The top 10 entries, selected for our special First Responder Coloring Book.
A gallery of thanks: Top 10 tributes to first responders
The 9-1-1 Heroes Art Contest brings in many thoughtful and creative submissions from K–12 students across North Central Texas. A panel of judges carefully reviewed the entries and selected 10 standout pieces to be featured as finalists in the public voting round.
These works reflect more than just artistic skill. Each one is a personal expression of gratitude, a young person’s way of honoring the people who serve their community in moments of crisis.
From bold colors to intricate detail, these pieces captured the spirit of first response and the heart behind the headset. We’re proud to share this year’s top 10 student tributes below.
Their art reminds us that appreciation can come in many forms, and that first responders leave a lasting impression on even the youngest members of our communities.
The contest's top 10 pieces, featured as finalists in the public voting round.
Looking ahead
The 9-1-1 Heroes Art Contest began as a way to celebrate first responders and engage the next generation through creativity and community. Over the past two years, we’ve seen just how powerful that connection can be, from mural dedications and classroom participation to heartfelt messages from young artists who are already showing us what gratitude looks like.
We often talk about next-gen 9-1-1 software as a leap in technology with a future built on data, speed and smarter tools — but this campaign reminded us that the next generation is already stepping up to support public safety with creativity, compassion and a deep appreciation for the people who serve.
While this program began in partnership with NCT9-1-1, we believe it could serve as a model for other communities looking to recognize and celebrate their own first responders in meaningful ways.
If your agency, school district or community is interested to learn more or explore a potential partnership, we’d love to hear from you. You can reach us at CCITEAM@motorolasolutions.com
Thank you
To every student who submitted artwork, to the teachers and families who encouraged them and to the first responders who continue to inspire all of us — thank you.
Your service is seen. Your impact is felt. Your work matters.
From all of us at Motorola Solutions, happy National First Responders Day.