Aurora County led the way. South Dakota followed. These are the official documents recognizing October as First Responders Appreciation Month.
In November 2025, Aurora County became the first county in South Dakota to officially proclaim October as First Responders Appreciation Month. It was a small county making a big statement — that the firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMTs, paramedics, and 911 dispatchers who show up at all hours deserve to be recognized by name.
Two months later, on January 21, 2026, Governor Larry Rhoden signed a proclamation designating October 2026 as First Responders Appreciation Month for the entire State of South Dakota. What started at a county courthouse in Plankinton now stands for all 66 counties.
South Dakota Safety Days exists to honor that commitment — and to give our communities a place to say thank you in person.
The first county proclamation of its kind in South Dakota, adopted by the Aurora County Commission. It recognizes the courage and daily service of local first responders and sets a precedent we hope every county in the state will follow.
Signed by Governor Larry Rhoden, this proclamation designates October 2026 as First Responders Appreciation Month across South Dakota — extending Aurora County's leadership to every community in the state.
South Dakota Safety Days is October 9 & 10, 2026 in Plankinton. Come out, bring the kids, and meet the crews.
See the Schedule Support the Event