For Immediate Release
DHS Press Office
Contact: 202-282-8010
WASHINGTON—Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today announced the start of the nomination period for the 2013 Rick Rescorla National Award for Resilience.
“The Rick Rescorla National Award for Resilience recognizes outstanding response to a catastrophic incident and leadership in fostering resilient and prepared communities,” said Secretary Napolitano. “Homeland security begins with hometown security, and we should recognize citizens who demonstrate this spirit of resilience and strength, serving as models for communities across our nation.”
In 2012, Secretary Napolitano announced the creation of the Rick Rescorla National Award for Resilience, in memory of Richard "Rick" Rescorla, who on September 11, 2001 led a massive evacuation of Morgan Stanley's 2,700-person workforce located in the South Tower, saving the lives of many of his coworkers.
The Rick Rescorla National Award for Resilience is the Department of Homeland Security’s first national resilience award for superior leadership and innovation by a non-governmental individual or organization who exemplifies the qualities and achievements of Rick Rescorla, emphasizing leadership in effective preparation, response, and recovery in the face of disasters.
On Dec. 27, 2012, Secretary Napolitano announced that Jane Cage, Chair of the Citizens Advisory Recovery Team (CART) in Joplin Mo., and the citizens of Joplin were awarded the 2012 Rick Rescorla National Award for Resilience, recognizing their contributions in the aftermath of the devastating tornadoes that struck Joplin in May 2011.
For more information on the Rick Rescorla National Award for Resilience and how to nominate an individual or organization, visit www.dhs.gov/rick-rescorla-national-award-resilience. An individual or organization may be nominated for the Rick Rescorla National Award for Resilience beginning April 1, 2013. The nomination forms and supporting materials must be returned no later than May 31, 2013 in order to be considered for recognition in 2013.
For more information, visit www.dhs.gov/rick-rescorla-national-award-resilience.
###