National Lineman Appreciation Day
Not every holiday’s lucky enough to have a classic pop song attached to it. But that’s exactly how things turned out for National Lineman Appreciation Day.
“I am a lineman for the county
And I drive the main road
Searchin’ in the sun for another overload…”
Jimmy Webb wrote “Wichita Lineman” in 1968 and Glen Campbell recorded it later that year. “Rolling Stone” magazine ranked it at number 195 on a list of the 500 greatest songs of all time.
More on that later.
Linemen (and women) work on power or phone lines — keeping the current flowing to our homes and businesses. It’s a dangerous job. After 2012’s Hurricane Sandy, the 113th Congress passed a bill designating April 18 as National Lineman Appreciation Day.
The bill became law in 2013.
NATIONAL LINEMAN APPRECIATION DAY ACTIVITIES
1.Say you appreciate them
Maybe you can spot one working in your neighborhood, or send your power company a note when they come through for you.
2.#thankalineman
Post on social media with this hashtag to encourage others to appreciate and recognize the important job that linemen do.
3.Donate to a fallen lineman
Nonprofits seek assistance for injured linemen and their families. Help out on this day.
WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL LINEMAN APPRECIATION DAY
A. They keep the power running
Think about going without power for just one day. Linemen work behind (or, actually above) the scene so we can keep our lives moving.
B. A risky occupation
Dealing with high-voltage electrical wires at great heights is dangerous. Linemen are brave enough to get the job done.
C. They give up family time for us
They work tirelessly, often during odd hours, away from their families to address electrical problems.
References:
“National Lineman Appreciation Day” │ https://nationaltoday.com/national-lineman-appreciation-day/