‘Thank you to front-liners’

Miss Earth Marianas Leisha Deleon Guerrero. (Contributed Photo)

CNMI Miss Earth Leisha Deleon Guerrero is one of those who are thankful for all the services of all the front-liners and first responders in this COVID-19 pandemic—the health care workers, the police, the fire department workers, as well as the janitors, teachers, cashiers, and staff of all essential businesses—who are all stepping up to the plate to not only prevent the spread of the coronavirus but also sustain daily living for the rest of the community.

“Every day you wake up ready to risk your lives and health for the sake of our people. Each day you have the choice, and you choose to help our community move forward amidst these weary times. Thank you for being truly brave and working endlessly. Without you, our society would not be where it is today,” she said in a statement.

Deleon Guerrero added that the people of the CNMI will forever be in debt for the selflessness and sacrifice shown by the front-liners and are good role models for the islands’ youth.

“You selflessly provide comfort, support, security, and reassurance to all, considering you have a family of your own. Our youth admires each of you in hopes to one day become just like you. Simply because of the honor, you carry on serving our islands,” she said. “On behalf of Miss Northern Marianas Earth and our team, we thank you for being courageous and all that you are for our people.”

Others in the community are also grateful.

Iris Lee, a student from Saipan Southern High School, said she is thankful for front-liners’ hard work and sacrifice.

“I know it is not easy to work in this circumstance where anything can happen that affects you and the ones you love, but your hard work does not go unnoticed,” she said. “Thank you for risking important parts of your life for us. Thank you for protecting us and working diligently for all of us. We appreciate you from the bottom of our hearts,” she said.

Dong A Wholesale’s Jenny Lee said she is also very thankful and grateful for the CNMI’s first responders for helping the community have a positive attitude in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mount Carmel School teacher Jener Pineda likened front-liners to modern day heroes. “Thank you very much to our modern-day heroes, to front-liners/first responders, for you dedication and sacrifices in the battle against COVID-19.” He described front-liners as “selfless and courageous” for doing their job, adding that “we are with you.”