POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks will honor the unwavering dedication and bravery of local first responders during its 2026 First Responders Appreciation Day on Oct. 28. The event will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. on the College campus. First responders, students, and members of the public are invited to join in a heartfelt tribute.

The event serves as a tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and service of all first responders who answer the call when others are in need.

This event will feature a First Responders Appreciation Day parade, a memorial ceremony at Williams Memorial Chapel, and refreshments immediately following the ceremony.

National First Responders Day is recognized nationally on Oct. 28. Congress has repeatedly adopted resolutions recognizing and honoring the service and sacrifice of the nation’s first responders.

This year’s ceremony will honor the lives and service of Christian County Sheriff's Deputies Gabriel Ramirez and Michael Hislope, two courageous public servants who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community.

Dr. Lloyd Nguyen, associate professor of criminal justice, shared why this recognition is so important to the College.

“Christ demonstrated the ultimate example of selfless sacrifice for humanity,” Nguyen said. “In a different, but deeply meaningful way, first responders demonstrate selflessness when they accept the responsibility to protect others, often entering circumstances others are trying to escape. Their service reflects courage, compassion, duty, and a willingness to put others' welfare before their own.”

If you would like to participate in the parade, please RSVP to lnguyen@cofo.edu with the number of attendees and the number of emergency/service vehicles participating.

Event Schedule

• 9:00 a.m. – First Responders Parade Staging
• 9:30 a.m. – First Responders Appreciation Parade
• 10:00 a.m. – Memorial and Appreciation Ceremony
• 11:00 a.m. – Reception