The Arlington Chamber of Commerce held the 30th Annual Valor Awards Ceremony & Luncheon on Wednesday, April 11 at the Fort Myers Officer's Club to honor members of the Arlington County Police, Fire and Sheriff Departments, as well as the Office of Emergency Management.
"Often, this is the only public recognition these officers receive," said Chamber President Rich Doud. "It is unique to hear how their heroic acts occurred and to meet the officers involved. We are fortunate that they work in Arlington and perform so selflessly in the service of our businesses and citizens."
The ceremony began with a Presentation of the Colors by a combined Color Guard, and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Col. Carl Coffman, Joint Base Commander of Myer-Henderson Hall. Chamber Chair Doug Brammer of Verizon welcomed guests to the event, then introduced keynote speaker Steve Chenevey, ABC7 morning/noon news anchor. After reading a letter of remarks from U.S. Sen. Mark Warner, who was unable to attend the event, Chenevey read the citations for each award presented, noting the humble bravery and dedication of each individual.
Leadership of all respective departments submitted nominations, and a selection committee chose the final honorees. The 2012 Arlington Chamber of Commerce Valor Award Honorees are:
Arlington County Office of Emergency Management
Emergency Communication Team, represented by Assistant Supervisor Richard Spencer - Life-Saving Award
Arlington County Fire Department
Battalion Chief Christopher Dever - Meritorious Service Award
Firefighter I Joaquin Ibarra & Firefighter II Corey Sherrill - Life-Saving Award
Firefighter II Alexander Dimoff, Lieutenant Jacob Johnson, Battalion Chief Stuart Insley, Firefighter II Mark Jaquays & Firefighter II Chad Stamps - Life-Saving Award
Arlington County Office of the Sheriff
LaShawn Fisher - Meritorious Service Award
Lieutenant Jimmie Barrett, Jr. - Valor Award
Arlington County Police Department
Ann Mountjoy - Meritorious Service Award
Officer Sara Balch & Officer Sean Giligan - Life Saving Award
Officer Jason Cox, Corporal Jim Mastoras & Corporal Al Taber - Life Saving Award
Corporal Steve Gomez & Corporal Mindy Woods - Valor with Life-Saving Award
Corporal Kevin Riley - Valor with Life-Saving Award.