Lady Liberty
Therapy Dog · Placed
Lady Liberty — known as "Libby" — is a therapy dog partnered with Retired Fire Chief Rick Bartee of the Roseville Fire Department. Received at just five months old, Libby is now fully trained and actively provides support during crisis incidents, critical incident stress debriefings, community outreach programs, and FEMA USAR responses. Whether supporting first responders at home or deploying alongside teams during demanding emergency operations, Libby provides a calming, grounding presence that helps those who serve others find the support they need.
Retired Fire Chief Rick Bartee
Retired Fire Chief Rick Bartee
Retired Fire Chief, City of Roseville · FEMA USAR Blue IST Leader · Paw Platoon Handler
Chief Rick Bartee dedicated more than three decades to the fire service — from every rank at the Phoenix Fire Department to Fire Chief of the City of Roseville, California. As a FEMA USAR Blue Incident Support Team Leader, he has deployed to some of the nation's most significant disasters, including the September 11 attacks, Hurricane Katrina, the Champlain Towers collapse in Surfside, and the Lahaina wildfires. A lifelong advocate for first responder wellness, Chief Bartee also serves as a peer support volunteer with the Roseville Fire Department and Roseville Public Safety Foundation.
Download Full BiographyLady Liberty's Scrapbook
"Hearts for Heroes delivers far more than trained dogs — they deliver trust, preparedness, and a tangible commitment to the mental health and resilience of those who serve."
Retired Fire Chief Rick Bartee
FEMA USAR Blue IST Leader · Handler, Lady Liberty
"Her presence has had a meaningful and measurable impact, helping to lower stress, encourage communication, and provide emotional grounding for first responders, victims, and community members alike."
Retired Fire Chief Rick Bartee
FEMA USAR Blue IST Leader · Handler, Lady Liberty
Lady Liberty: Stories & Spotlights
Videos, news features, stories, endorsements, and letters documenting Lady Liberty's journey and impact.
Endorsement of Hearts 4 Heroes USA
Retired Fire Chief Rick Bartee
Chief Rick Bartee — Retired Fire Chief of Roseville and FEMA USAR Blue IST Leader — writes in strong support of Hearts 4 Heroes USA and its Crisis Support K9 program, drawing on his firsthand experience as Lady Liberty's handler.
Read Chief Rick Bartee's Endorsement LetterSupport Lady Liberty & the Paw Platoon Mission
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