The Alabama Forestry Association (AFA) this week took its “Back the Blue” tour to the Northwest corner of the Yellowhammer State.

On Wednesday, State Sen. Larry Stutts (R-Tuscumbia) and State Rep. Jamie Kiel (R-Russellville) joined the AFA in Russellville where they thanked and fed around 300 first responders from Colbert and Franklin Counties. AFA members from Alabama Farm Credit and Growing Assets, LLC also volunteered at the cookout.

Stutts expressed his appreciation for the sacrifices made by the law enforcement and first responder communities.

“I really appreciated getting to directly thank and honor our first responders at the cookout,” said Stutts. “I’m grateful we had so many police, firemen, sheriffs and others who came out for this lunch. Having the opportunity to recognize all these hardworking individuals was something I’ll always cherish.”

Kiel said the lunch was a small token of appreciation for the efforts of those who serve the community.

“Our first responders are there for us when we need them most,” said Kiel. “It is often a thankless job. Although we could never repay the sacrifice they make, this lunch was a small ‘thank you’ for all they do.”

On Thursday State Sen. Greg Reed (R-Jasper), State Rep. Connie Rowe (R-Jasper) and the AFA then held a similar event in Jasper that fed around 200 Walker County first responders. AFA members from Jasper Lumber Company volunteered at the cookout.

The Alabama senate leader believes it’s vital that elected leaders and the community publicly support law enforcement.

“I appreciated the opportunity to honor our law enforcement officers,” said Reed. “They put themselves into harm’s way to ensure that our families and our communities are safe and secure, and we owe all of those in uniform a debt of gratitude for their service. Ensuring that Law Enforcement has the support they need will always be a priority of mine in the legislature.”

Rowe’s previous experience in law enforcement provides her with insight as to what the showing of support means.

“As a former law enforcement officer myself, I have a great appreciation for those who selflessly work to keep our communities safe,” said Rowe. “It was great to see everyone at the event who share this same gratitude and appreciation for our law enforcement. To all of those who serve, thank you for what you do.”

The AFA said the cookout included free lunch of hamburgers and hotdogs for all the local first responders. The events were a huge success in both communities. This was the associations ninth and tenth stop on their “Back the Blue Tour.”