Sunday is Officially First Responders Day in Massachusetts.

By ALISON BAUTER (Patch Staff)

WILMINGTON, MA - With a stroke from Gov. Charlie Baker's pen, the third Sunday of April has officially been designated First Responders Day in Massachusetts.

The timing could hardly be more fitting, as this weekend marks the third anniversary of the marathon bombings. Hundreds of first-responders will line the Marathon route Monday and work behind the scenes to ensure the run happens safely.

“First responders put their own lives on the line to save others in danger, and we have a responsibility to ensure they receive strong leadership, representation and recognition on Beacon Hill,” Baker said in a statement on the bill signing Friday. “Every day, these brave men and women and their families provide extraordinary service to the Commonwealth. We strive to follow their example and will use this occasion every year to recommit ourselves to doing so.”

Rep. James Miceli, a Wilmington Democrat, sponsored the bill, and credits former Tewksbury selectman Jerry Selissen for first approaching him with the idea.

“I couldn’t think of a better time for Governor Baker to sign this legislation, and I am proud to have him joining us in remembering our first responders, especially given it is the anniversary weekend of the marathon bombings," Miceli said in a statement."I have been determined to see this legislation through, as a day of thanks to our first responders was long overdue. These men and women who serve as our firefighters, EMT, police, and more risk everything by putting on their uniforms, and I know the people of the Commonwealth will join Governor Baker and myself in showing their appreciation to our first responders, both past and present.”

This year, April 17 will be designated as First Responders Day. Going forward it will fall on the Sunday before the third Monday of the month.