State and local leaders met with firefighters in Bridgeport Sunday to thank them for their front-line service.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Mayor Joe Ganim say first responders have no choice but to come in close contact with the public at a time of social distancing.

In a ceremony at fire headquarters, they thanked firefighters, along with police and 911 operators, for going above and beyond.

"In this historic moment, these guys are the heroes. I want a heroes fund to recognize our firefighters, police and health care workers who are the heroes of this moment," said Blumenthal.

The fire chief says he was honored to learn an effort is underway to recognize first responders with "combat pay" for front-line service during the pandemic.

Blumenthal says the heroes fund he's advocating for would make that possible.

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