STATEHOUSE (Oct. 31, 2024) – Nominations are now being accepted for the state's first-ever award recognizing Hoosier first responders who are killed or seriously injured in an act of public service, thanks to legislation supported by local lawmakers.
State Rep. Sharon Negele (R-Attica) said the Hoosier First Responder Medal of Honor honors firefighters, emergency medical responders, law enforcement and others who distinguish themselves conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of the first responder's life above and beyond the call of duty.
"Because of the brave actions of firefighters, EMTs, police officers and other first responders, our communities are safer," Negele said. "We can now celebrate and honor these heroes who made tremendous sacrifices with this new medal of honor."
To be eligible for the award, an individual must be an Indiana first responder, such as a law enforcement officer, firefighter, corrections officer, public safety telecommunicator, EMS worker, emergency management service provider, county coroner, deputy coroner, public safety agency employee, or volunteer whose duties include rapid emergency response.
"Not all heroes get the recognition that they deserve," said State Rep. Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer). "That is why we created a new medal of honor specifically for first responders who made tremendous sacrifices while protecting others."
"Everyday heroes such as firefighters, EMTs and police officers often face danger to serve and protect," said State Rep. Michael Aylesworth (R-Hebron). "Through this new award, we can thank these men and women for their heroic actions."
Learn more about how to nominate someone for the Hoosier First Responder Medal of Honor and other special recognitions available through the Indiana Department of Homeland Security at in.gov/dhs/special-recognitions.
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State Rep. Michael Aylesworth (R-Hebron) represents House District 11,
which includes portions of Jasper, Lake, Newton and Porter counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Kendell Culp (R-Rensselaer) represents House District 16,
which includes portions of Jasper, Pulaski, Starke and White counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Sharon Negele (R-Attica) represents House District 13,
which includes all of Benton and Warren counties, and portions of
Fountain, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Tippecanoe and White counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
