Throughout 2021, we’ll be honoring our local heroes by showcasing items given to Billy Graham by law enforcement, fire, and military personnel throughout the course of his ministry.

On February 15, 1971, Billy Graham was named an Honorary Life Member of the George Washington Friendship Fire Company. He was a voice of hope and encouragement for many men and women serving as first responders during the 70 years of his ministry.

Billy Graham’s sincere gratitude shined through in each response he gave to those on the front lines of disaster. A firefighter once asked Billy Graham for spiritual encouragement and he responded: “Let me first of all commend you and your colleagues for your dedication. The same is true for all those who willingly put their lives on the line so we can live in safety and freedom. Our world is a better place because of you, and God has given you a very important responsibility.”

The legacy of Billy Graham continues on through the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s Rapid Response Team (RRT). The ministry was birthed out of the need for crisis-trained chaplains when the events of September 11, 2001 shook the United States. More than 13,000 Billy Graham RRT chaplains have deployed and ministered to those in the midst of tragedy since 2001.

Are you facing a trial and need prayer?  A Billy Graham Rapid Response Chaplain is stationed at the Billy Graham Library during normal operating hours and would love to pray with you.

Interested in seeing more memorabilia from Billy Graham’s collection? Plan your visit to the Billy Graham Library