NACS Foundation Launches Second Annual Search for “First Responder of the Year”

Awards will honor first responders and K9 officers who go above and beyond for communities

ALEXANDRIA, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The NACS Foundation today opened nominations for its second annual “First Responder of the Year” Awards, recognizing extraordinary service by first responders across communities nationwide. Eligible nominees include firefighters, police officers, EMTs, doctors, nurses, 9-1-1 professionals, American Red Cross volunteers and other first responders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment during the call of duty.

Anyone — from the general public and family members to convenience store and fuel retailing employees — can fill out a brief form by June 1, sharing the story of a first responder they believe deserves recognition. New for 2026, the NACS FOUNDATION is also encouraging nominations of exceptional K9 officers, who can be submitted through the same form.

The winner will:

• Win free gas for a year (up to $2,500 value), compliments of media partner GSTV
• Be honored during the convenience store industry’s 24/7 Day on July 24, 2026 — a national day of celebration during which tens of thousands of convenience stores across the United States unite to honor the unique relationship between convenience stores and first responders.
• Receive a trip to the 2026 NACS Show in Las Vegas where they will be celebrated in a special ceremony on the main stage.

“We know that first responders don’t do it for recognition. They run toward danger while others evacuate because they want to help,” said NACS Foundation Executive Director, Kevin O’Connell. “Our industry has a front-row seat to this sacrifice, courage and commitment, often operating the only stores and gas stations open during times of disaster or critical need. We wanted to recognize their dedication to keeping us safe.”

ABOUT FIRST RESPONDER OF THE YEAR

Launched in 2025, the First Responder of the Year Award was born from the recognition that so many first responders demonstrate extraordinary service out of sight. The inaugural award received more than 75 nominations, with the top three awardees spanning an incredible array of service:

• First place winner Charles Biery: a 55-year volunteer Red Cross volunteer, whose experience included coordination of 9/11 recovery efforts.
• Runner-up Angela Ryan: A volunteer firefighter in Marshall, Indiana who saved the lives of two customers while on shift at Casey’s.
• Runner-up Kevin Umscheid: A volunteer fire chief and fuel driver at Dara’s Corner Market in Kansas, praised for his incredible emergency preparedness efforts.

To get involved, visit www.247Day.org.