First responders celebrated at Tempe St. Luke's Hospital annual BBQ

Tempe St. Luke's Hospital hosted its First Responders Annual BBQ on April 11, at the Ruben Romero Pavilion in Kiwanis Park in Tempe, recognizing the first responders who service the residents of Tempe and surrounding communities.

A press release explained that the popular event is the hospital’s way of showing its appreciation for the Tempe Police Department, the Tempe, Guadalupe, Mesa and Phoenix fire and rescue departments and the AMR crews that all service Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital.

Hundreds of first responders attended this family-friendly event, as well as several Tempe leaders like Mayor Corey Woods, members of the Tempe City Council and Tempe Fire & Police leadership. The first responders are treated to a BBQ feast which includes steaks, chicken, salad and dessert.

Both current and former members are invited, and many make time to swing by and enjoy the food and live entertainment from the Rumrunner Steel Drum Band, according to the release.

Dr. Kent Layton began this event 40 years ago when he was medical director of the emergency department at Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital to tighten the bond between the hospital and the first responders, the release detailed.

After Layton’s retirement, the tradition remained and grew even bigger over the years into the event it has become today, thanks in great part to Pre-Hospital Coordinator of Emergency Services Sheila Bryant and Boy Scout Troop 157 leader Tyler Montague.

The pair spearhead the event, planning, organizing and making sure attendees are well fed. Several members of Troop 157, including Owen Layton, Layton's son, serve as the BBQ chiefs, doing duty over the grills, the release noted.