Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Rhode Island Safe

Rhode Island is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding Rhode Island first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

Captain Julie Kearney Veader (Bristol) — As Bristol’s first female police officer, Captain Julie Kearney Veader has spent 27 years breaking barriers and pushing the department to new heights. Honored as Rhode Island’s Female Police Leader of the Year in 2024, she has gone beyond the call of duty — not just solving crimes, but changing how they’re investigated. She launched a cold case unit to bring long-unsolved cases back into the spotlight and introduced advanced investigative techniques to strengthen the department’s approach. Just as importantly, she has mentored and developed the next generation of officers, ensuring her impact will be felt for years to come. Read more here.

Corporal Kyle Shibley (Smithfield) — Corporal Kyle Shibley of the Rhode Island State Police was honored with the 2025 Elwood Johnson Outstanding Service Award for his dedication to the Special Olympics community. For over a decade, he has been a leader in fundraising and advocacy, a consistent presence at competitions and a trusted friend to many athletes. His commitment to the Smithfield-based organization goes beyond duty, as he finds joy in celebrating athletes' achievements and ensuring law enforcement continues its support for Special Olympics Rhode Island. Read more here.

Sergeant Tim Daly (North Kingstown) — Sergeant Tim Daly of the North Kingstown Police Department rescued a woman in a wheelchair from a burning home on Fletcher Road in 2024. Responding to what was initially a brush fire, Daly quickly realized the severity of the situation and rushed inside, locating the trapped woman as smoke filled the room. With explosions heard nearby, he and other officers worked urgently to bring her to safety before firefighters arrived. The heroic moment, captured on his body camera, demonstrated Daly’s quick action and selflessness, which likely saved the woman’s life. Read more here.

Chief Kyle Rekas (Narragansett) — Long before becoming chief of the Narragansett Police Department in 2024, Kyle Rekas proved his dedication to protecting others in a life-or-death moment. In 2006, he rescued a drowning child, an act of bravery that earned him the department’s highest commendation. His quick thinking and decisive action in that critical moment reflected the same commitment to public safety that has defined his 25-year career. Now leading the department, Rekas continues to serve with the same courage and dedication, focused on strengthening community trust and keeping Narragansett safe. Read more here.

Officer Keith Medeiros (Bristol) — Officer Medeiros of the Bristol Police Department is more than just a familiar face in the halls of the Bristol Warren Regional School District — he’s a trusted mentor and advocate for students’ mental well-being. Recognizing the power of emotional support, he launched a groundbreaking therapy dog program with his K9 partner, Brody, bringing comfort and companionship to kids who need it most. His kindness and dedication have made a lasting impact, netting him the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association’s 2023 Community Officer of the Year Award. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Rhode Island to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!