Louisville first responders honored for swift actions in aftermath of UPS plane crash

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Louisville officials Monday honored first responders and partner agencies who helped manage the aftermath of the November 2025 crash of UPS Flight 2976.

The ceremony was held at Fairdale Christian Church, where Metro leaders, members of the Louisville Metro Council and state representatives recognized the coordinated response by police, fire, EMS and other agencies.

Officials said the swift actions of first responders helped protect lives and maintain public safety during a chaotic and dangerous situation.

"First responders are often called heroes, but that word sometimes feels too small when I was able to see first hand what you all were doing," Mayor Craig Greenberg told crowd of people who showed up to that fiery scene in November.

Each of the 40 agencies was presented with a proclamation from the city for their efforts.

Leaders said the ceremony was intended to recognize not only the immediate response, but the ongoing sacrifices made by first responders and their families in the months since.

"We've trained and trained and trained with that for years, and that was a true test of it that night," said Jody Meiman, director of Metro Emergency Management. "And it worked very well."

Officials expressed gratitude to those who responded and said their efforts continue to serve as an example of dedication to the Louisville community.

"Nobody is doing this for atta boys and pats on the back," Louisville Fire Chief Brian O'Neill said. "People do this because they feel a calling to serve and they want to help people that are in need."

UPS Flight 2976 caught fire and crashed as it took off on Nov. 4, 2025, killing the three crew members on board and 12 people on the ground.