In commemoration of the 15th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, and in honor of all our nation's first responders, Operation Gratitude is inviting volunteers of all ages to gather for a very special First Responder Appreciation Day.

Volunteers will work side by side with first responders from Los Angeles-area fire and police departments, corporate partners, and members of the media at this unique event to assemble more than 10,000 Care Kits and officially launch the Operation Gratitude First Responder Care Kit Program.

These kits will be distributed to every Los Angeles police officer, firefighter, and paramedic. Additional kits will be sent to first responders nationwide.

Supporters and volunteers unable to attend this event are encouraged to contribute "Thank You" letters to first responders, make "survival" style paracord bracelets, or host a "Wish List" Item Collection or Cents for Service Drive in their community. More information can be found at www.OperationGratitude.com.

Care Kit sponsorship is also welcome at bit.ly/FirstResponderKits.

LA-area volunteers are encouraged to sign up at OperationGratitude.com/9-11

"After 13 years of serving the Military and Veteran communities, the Operation Gratitude First Responders Care Kit program will officially launch in remembrance of those who ran towards danger fifteen years ago during the September 11, 2001 attacks. This Care Kit program is an organic expansion of our organization's mission to say 'thank you' to all who serve our nation," said Carolyn Blashek, founder and CEO of Operation Gratitude. "We couldn't be more excited to show our gratitude for the American heroes who protect and serve the people and communities here at home, just as we have done for our Military heroes who protect us overseas."

To date, Operation Gratitude volunteers have assembled and shipped 1,606,071 care packages to individual Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines deployed in harm's way, to their children left behind, and to first responders, veterans, new recruits, wounded heroes, and their caregivers.

For more information, visit www.OperationGratitude.com.