Mystic, CT - All active police, fire, EMT and ambulance personnel will receive free Museum admission during First Responders Weekend at Mystic Seaport Saturday through Monday, September 3-5, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Free admission will be extended to all first responder personnel with proper identification as a way of saying “thank you” for their dedicated community service. Family members of personnel will receive the Museum’s discounted group admission rate: adult $19; youth (ages 6-17); $10.50 and free for children ages 5 and under.
First Responders Weekend recognizes the work of present day emergency personnel, and celebrates the people, methods, and vehicles involved in maritime rescues in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
“In the wake of Tropical Storm Irene, we appreciate more than ever the important work these people do to keep us safe during times of crisis. Offering them the opportunity to come and enjoy Mystic Seaport is our way of giving back,” said Steve White, president of Mystic Seaport.
Plans for the weekend include: hands-on activities such as a bucket brigade, a man-overboard drill, and a breeches buoy rescue demonstration; historic apparatus on display including antique fire engines, a horse-drawn ambulance, and the fireboat John J. Harvey; rescue animal demonstrations by the Newfoundland Club of New England and K-9 police dogs; designated times for visitors to listen to real-life stories by first responders.
A highlight of the weekend will be the fireboat John J. Harvey from New York City. When launched in 1931, the Harvey was described as "the most powerful and most efficient marine fire fighter in the world." In her 70-year career, the Harvey battled numerous fires, including the 1943 blaze that destroyed the French passenger liner S.S. Normandie. On September 11, 2011, the Harvey was pressed back into service, and for more than 80 hours, joined other New York City fireboats in providing water at the site of the World Trade Center tragedy. Now retired, the Harvey hosts frequent free public trips in New York Harbor and other nearby waters. While she is here guests will be able to board to boat for tours. They will also be doing water spraying demonstrations, weather permitting.
The First Responders Weekend discount applies to general admission only. The offer cannot be combined with any other discount and is subject to change. Food, drink and special activity fees will be available for purchase at regular prices.
