Thank You for All You Do, National Park Service Employees

National parks are remarkable and inspiring – all park fans can agree on this. We can also agree on the fact that the women and men of the National Park Service are some of the most fascinating and committed individuals you will encounter.The tireless work of National Park Service employees extends into nearly every profession – each one contributing to the preservation of these spectacular treasures, ensuring they remain protected for future generations, and teaching us about the cultures, landscapes, and history that make up our past and present.

In a recent communication, we asked our supporters to share some of the reasons they’re thankful for our friends in the green and grey. Here are some of the highlights we received:

“Dear Public Servants: Thank you for your care and love for our national parks. I recently completed a tour of the beautiful and wonderful parks of the Southwest. My grandparents introduced me to the parks at a young age. I’m now 78 years old and still enjoying them.” – Jean B.

“At Mount Rushmore, we went in the day time and luckily went back for the evening program with the park ranger – Wow!!! It made the hair stand up on my neck. She made the program SO interesting. Each president seemed to come alive. I wish every grammar school aged child could see this program. I think they would be a better American citizen. The park ranger made all the difference! Thank you to ALL park rangers.” – Alan and Sarah Jane C.

“You’re the guardians of what my children’s children’s children will see and experience! Keep up the great work and thank you for the gift of your stewardship!” – Patricia G.

“You are the best! Your skills and expertise help us understand and appreciate the beauties of our national parks. We will never forget the song about caves sung by our ranger in the dark in Slaughter Canyon [at Carlsbad Caverns National Park] – acapella and beautiful!” – Anita S.

“In the 1960s our family of five spent many 3-week summer vacations traveling in an adapted “station wagon” to sleep us all, visiting national parks, forests, and monuments. The scenery was enough reward, but at many stops the help, service, instruction, and programs via park rangers added greatly to the experience and what we gained. At the national parks, we put up our tent for extended time, giving more time for ranger programs to learn from and enjoy. Now six decades later, we still enjoy looking at vacation pictures and recalling experiences of those vacations. My thanks again for the parks and the park rangers. Thank you ALL!” – Nancy R.

“I know your job is not appreciated nearly as much as it merits. My brother and significant other worked in the park system, and I grew to love the parks’ ins and outs, as well as the beauty—the great beauty that needs your protection. You should be very proud of your service and the joy you bring to others.” – Joan S.

Join us in thanking the National Park Service for all they do by supporting the national parks and programs to which they dedicate themselves. We also want to hear from YOU! Comment below with your own memories and statements of gratitude for the work they do to preserve our national heritage.