With widespread lockdowns in place and a lot of people anxiously hoping that the pandemic gets under control and that a vaccine is developed, all eyes are on the health workers who are front and center trying to keep people alive even as they put their lives in danger.
But often forgotten are other key workers who keep the gears of society running even through the lockdown. And these people have laid their lives on the line as much as the health workers did and some have already paid the ultimate price.
Britain’s Health Secretary Matt Hancock himself has paid tribute to these unsung heroes.
He said: “I am overwhelmed by the outstanding commitment everyone has shown to keep the country moving during this unprecedented time.
“Not only are our incredible frontline health and social care staff working to keep everyone well but they are supported by all the brilliant transport workers, supermarket staff, delivery people, armed forces, police, firefighters, teachers, and many others.”
Labor leader Sir Keir Starmer said: “Our hearts go out to the families of all key workers that have lost their lives.
“Every day during this crisis we see our key workers going out on the front line, risking their lives on behalf of us all.”
Acting Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey said: “Our key workers are heroes. By working on the front line in this national struggle, many have made the ultimate sacrifice as they fought to protect us. We cannot thank them enough.”
London bus driver Emeka Nyack, 36, is one of those who perished in the line of duty. He drove the No. 4 from Blackfriars to Archway and once told his wife Anne that he was afraid he didn’t have enough protection to keep safe. There are at least 20 bus drivers who died due to the virus.
The third Royal Mail worker to die was postman Akie Fenty, 45. He was rushed to the hospital after experiencing difficulty breathing. Just moments before his death, he texted his partner Lisa Masson and said: “I love you. This is f***ing crazy.”
Chief Superintendent Simon Ovens, of London’s Police Superintendents’ Association, honored the heroic sacrifices of the officers risking their lives.
He added: “Officers continue to do their regular duties while also enforcing the restrictions.
“When you arrest someone, say for domestic abuse, you can’t maintain a safe distance. So they are all putting themselves at personal risk.
“Officers also attend Covid-19- related deaths in the community, both in care homes and houses.
“When policing government restrictions officers have been asked to use the four Es — engage, explain, encourage, and enforce. With enforcement a last resort.
“But we are still getting lots of spitting at officers — who then have to go back to their families, who will also be at risk. It’s incredibly easy to criticize officers but I would like to hear people stand up and praise them.”
Last week even Prince Philip, 98, thanked these key workers.
He said: “I wanted to recognize the vital work being done by so many to tackle the pandemic.
“On behalf of those of us who remain safe and at home, I wanted to thank all the key workers who ensure the infrastructure of our life continues — the staff and volunteers working in food production and distribution, those keeping postal and delivery services goings and those ensuring the rubbish continues to be collected.”
Replaced!