This year’s event brought together government officials, leaders, first responders, local business and community members to celebrate remarkable acts of heroism, lifesaving interventions, and lifetime contributions to public safety. We were honored to welcome Dr. Karen Shelton, State Health Commissioner of Virginia, and Christopher Lindsay, Chief Operating Officer of the Virginia Department of Health.Dr. Shelton, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and former public health district director, now leads the Virginia Department of Health in its mission to protect and promote the health of all Virginians. Her work has spanned addressing maternal and child health, behavioral health challenges, and the fentanyl crisis. Christopher Lindsay, a lifelong Virginian with a strong background in healthcare administration, has played a pivotal role in advancing public health initiatives and leading critical reforms in the Office of Emergency Medical Services.
Mr. Lindsay delivered a powerful keynote address, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of first responders and the vital role they play in safeguarding our region. He also highlighted the essential role of first responders in safeguarding community health and well-being, and underscoring the deep partnership between public safety and public health agencies.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Celebrates a public safety leader’s decades of dedicated, impactful service.
Major Shawn Kimmitz of the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his 31 years of exemplary service, leadership, and innovation in law enforcement and community engagement. His visionary approach to public communication and steadfast commitment set a high standard for future generations.
Citizen Valor Award
Honors community members whose quick actions have saved lives in emergencies.
Shynesha Baylor and De’Andre Minor were recognized for their quick thinking and lifesaving actions when they came to the aid of a man who collapsed during a morning run. Their vigilance and swift response directly saved a life, demonstrating the power of community care and awareness. (Baylor and Minor were unable to attend this event)
Austin Scott, a volunteer firefighter, was honored after risking his life to extinguish a fire engulfing a neighbor with limited mobility. His decisive actions prevented a tragedy and exemplify the true spirit of heroism.
Firefighter and EMS Awards
Recognizes fire and emergency medical personnel for bravery and lifesaving response.
The Stafford Swift Water Rescue Team showcased expert teamwork and bravery during a high-risk rescue of nine stranded victims in the Rappahannock River. Battling extreme conditions, they ensured everyone was safely brought to shore
Spotsylvania County Fire & Rescue personnel received the Unit Citation Award for their extraordinary extrication of a critically trapped tractor trailer driver on Interstate 95. Their coordinated efforts under challenging circumstances saved a life and demonstrated the power of collaboration.
Life Saving Award
Presented to individuals or teams whose swift care directly saved lives.
The Spotsylvania County Fire, Rescue, and Emergency Management Team was honored for their rapid and coordinated response to a traumatic head injury, ensuring a critically injured patient received timely care and survived to enjoy life with family again.
Spotsylvania County Volunteer Firefighters and EMS personnel were recognized for their relentless CPR and advanced life support that revived an unresponsive patient, highlighting the importance of seamless teamwork.
Fredericksburg Fire Department and Police personnel received a Unit Lifesaving Award for saving the life of a choking 1-year-old tracheostomy patient through expert CPR, airway management, and teamwork across multiple agencies.
Heroism Award
For those showing exceptional courage and composure in dangerous situations.
The B-Platoon Night Shift of the Fredericksburg City Police Department was awarded the Heroism Unit Award for safely talking down a distraught man from the Plank Rd. overpass during a snowstorm. Their compassion and tactical skill turned a dangerous moment into a story of hope.
Deputies Chasity Williams-Grooms and Christian Barahona were awarded the Heroism Silver Award for their courageous intervention in a violent machete attack outside the courthouse, protecting bystanders and bringing the suspect into custody without further harm.
Investigative Merit Award
Honors law enforcement professionals for outstanding investigative work.
Sergeant Robert Mele was recognized for exceptional leadership and dedication in traffic enforcement, demonstrating how proactive policing improves safety for all.
Kim Orr, Public Health Specialist, earned acclaim for her innovative efforts connecting vulnerable residents to lifesaving resources, reducing emergencies, and supporting community wellness.
Master Detective Hanrahan was honored for his advanced forensic expertise that significantly impacted major homicide investigations, including quickly locating a missing person in a critical moment.
Detectives Corey Dobson and Melanie Boyle were commended for relentless dedication over two years to solve a challenging homicide, ultimately bringing justice to the victim’s family.
Detective Ralston and Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Gary Godman were recognized for their compassionate and thorough investigation and prosecution of a difficult child sexual assault case, securing a life sentence for the offender.
Detective David K. Wood was celebrated for his exceptional work solving a 40-year-old cold case murder using groundbreaking forensic genealogy, bringing closure and justice decades later.
These awards shine a bright light on the dedication, bravery, and compassion that define the Fredericksburg region’s public safety professionals and community champions. Their work saves lives, strengthens our neighborhoods, and inspires us all to do better. Join us in celebrating these extraordinary heroes who make our region safer and stronger every day! View all the photos from the event HERE