STATEHOUSE (Oct. 30, 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.
"Our first responders perform a vital task and are ready at a moment's notice to help others," said State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville). "This award is a way to give thanks to those who are always standing guard for their fellow Hoosiers and their communities."
State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) 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.
"We ask so much from our first responders, who day after day face the dangers no one else can," Greene said. "This formal recognition is a way to give thanks and honor their sacrifices."
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.
“The First Responder Medal of Honor is more than an award, it's also a promise that Indiana will always stand behind those who protect and serve us," said State Rep. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown). “These heroes who died or were injured in the line of duty deserve recognition.”
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. Cory Criswell (R-Middletown) represents House District 54,
which includes portions of Hancock, Henry, Rush and Shelby counties.
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State Rep. Robb Greene (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 47,
which includes portions of Johnson and Shelby counties.
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State Rep. Jennifer Meltzer (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 73,
which includes portions of Bartholomew, Decatur, Jennings and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
