May 4th Is More Than Star Wars Day – It’s a Day to Honor the Real Heroes Among Us

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A Day to Honor the Real Heroes Among Us: Firefighters

While May the 4th is often celebrated by Star Wars fans as “Star Wars Day,” the date also holds a much deeper significance in the real world. International Firefighters’ Day, observed annually on May 4, honors the brave men and women who serve communities across the globe — often with little recognition and immense personal sacrifice.

Firefighters by the Numbers: 2025 Update

According to the FEMA National Fire Department Registry, there are currently around 1.2 million fire service personnel across the United States. These numbers include:

  • 35% career firefighters

  • 52% volunteer firefighters

  • 13% paid-per-call personnel

The majority of departments in small towns and rural communities are still staffed by volunteers, individuals who juggle full-time jobs, families, and responsibilities — and still show up when the alarm sounds.

The Role Firefighters Play in Our Communities

Firefighters do more than respond to emergencies. They train rigorously throughout the year, often putting in hundreds of hours to remain certified and prepared for a wide range of situations — from structure fires to medical emergencies, severe weather rescues, and more.

Beyond emergencies, they are cornerstones of their communities. Many host seasonal events like Easter egg hunts, open houses, fire safety demonstrations, parades, and pancake breakfasts. Their role is just as much about prevention, education, and connection as it is about crisis response.

Wisper Internet’s Connection to First Responders

At Wisper Internet, we serve hundreds of communities across the Midwest and partner with dozens of fire departments. Whether we’re providing internet access to firehouses or mounting equipment on department towers to expand local coverage, we understand how critical fast, reliable internet is for first responders — and for the people they serve.

To show appreciation, Wisper offers a $5/month Thank You Discount to active firefighters and first responders. It’s one small way we can give back to those who give so much.

Learn how to claim your discount ›

Supporting the 1%

In many small towns, it’s often 1% of the population protecting the other 99%. These individuals serve with humility, compassion, and grit — sometimes for decades. While the fire departments themselves have been around for generations and will continue to serve long after today’s firefighters retire, the mission remains constant: be there when the community needs you.

On May 4, and every day, take a moment to appreciate the firefighters and first responders in your community. They’re not asking for recognition — but they absolutely deserve it.

From all of us at Wisper Internet:
Thank you for your service. We’re proud to support the work you do.