Hello,

An important part of mining history are the men and women who selflessly serve on the Mine Rescue Teams. There are approximately 300 Mine Rescue Teams serving and protecting the mines in the USA. October 30th is Mine Rescue Day. This day was selected by the Department of Labor’s Mine Health and Safety Administration because of its historical significance. On October 30, 1911 the first national mine rescue demonstration was held at Forbes Field in Pittsburgh, PA. It was organized by Joseph A. Holmes, who was appointed by President Taft as the first director of the U.S. Bureau of Mines. Holmes and President Taft attended this inaugural event. On Mine Rescue Day, October 30, we want to recognize and honor these courageous volunteers who put their lives on the line in the face of fire, toxic gases, explosions, water inundation and other treacherous mine emergency conditions so that other miners may live and return to their families. For a message from MSHA celebrating our Mine Rescue Teams, click here. Please share this message with our Mine Rescue Heroes.

Thanks for the share, WK!