77 WABC Hosts Annual Back the Blue Celebration

The event honors the service and sacrifices of law enforcement personnel and their families in New York City.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Awards

77 WABC Hosts Annual Back the Blue Celebration

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77 WABC Radio held its annual Back the Blue celebration in New York City to recognize the contributions of local law enforcement. The event brought together community leaders, broadcasters, and supporters to honor officers and their families.

Why it matters

The annual initiative provides a dedicated platform for law enforcement representatives and acknowledges the sacrifices made by those in the field. It highlights the station's ongoing community engagement efforts regarding public safety.

John and Margo Catsimatidis were formally honored as the 2026 People of the Year by the Detectives Endowment Association during the event. John Catsimatidis serves as the owner of Red Apple Media, the parent company of 77 WABC Radio.

The players

John Catsimatidis

He is the owner of Red Apple Media and a prominent business figure in New York.

Margo Catsimatidis

She is a community leader who was recognized alongside her husband for their contributions.

Brian Kilmeade

He is a well-known television and radio broadcaster who participated in the station coverage.

Detectives Endowment Association

This is a professional organization representing detectives within the New York City Police Department.

77 WABC Radio

This is a New York City-based radio station that hosts regular community and news programming.

The details

The celebration featured participation from prominent media figures including Brian Kilmeade, who supported the station’s coverage of the event. Programming throughout the day focused on the station's community initiatives and support for local law enforcement.

The 77 WABC Radio Back the Blue event took place on October 29, 2026.
John and Margo Catsimatidis received their award during October 2026.

Culture Shift

The recognition of the Catsimatidises follows the pattern established by the NYPD Detectives Endowment Association annual award ceremonies. This event reinforces the intersection of local media influence and public support for city law enforcement agencies.

Residents can expect continued coverage of community safety initiatives as the station maintains its focus on law enforcement partnerships. The event highlights the ongoing visibility of local media leaders in civic affairs.

The takeaway

This event serves to bolster the relationship between local broadcasters and law enforcement organizations in the city. Listeners can anticipate ongoing programming that emphasizes community support for public safety personnel.