By Michelle Durham, Anne-Marie Green

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Vice President Joe Biden will make a stop at the International Association of Fire Fighter’s Convention in Philadelphia today. He’s scheduled to speak at 1 p.m., and first responders are anxious to hear what he has to say.

President of the Philadelphia Firefighter’s Union Bill Gault says the Vice President’s visit means so much.

“Local 22 we’re honored that Vice President Biden is coming to town and to stand in solidarity with the nation’s fire fighters. It is our sincere hope that both he and President Obama will deliver a personal message to Mayor Mike Nutter to honor our arbitration award.”

Biden is no stranger to first responders. Campaign officials say the Vice President has called attention to the needs of fire fighters for years. No word on whether Biden will touch on the lengthy and contentious contract negotiations for Philly Fire fighters.

“Well the Vice President is coming to let us know that the President and Vice President as we say in our business ‘has our back,’” Harold Schaitberger General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters says.