Heroes

Honoring First Responders & Citizens

The John Paul Jones Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution proudly recognizes individuals for exceptional service, dedication, and contributions to public safety and the well-being of others. Through the presentation of SAR commendations and medals, we honor those in Law Enforcement, Fire Safety, Emergency Medical Services, and private citizens who have made a meaningful impact in their communities.

These awards cover a broad range of achievements—from professional excellence and community service to life-saving actions and acts of exceptional bravery. Each medal has specific criteria and is intended to acknowledge service and commitment that goes above and beyond the ordinary, whether or not the individual is in uniform.

For nominees in public service roles, we recommend they first receive formal recognition from their division head or department leadership. This helps confirm that their actions or service warrant further recognition through the SAR awards program.

To nominate someone for one of these commendations or medals, please use the form below.

Law Enforcement Medal

Presented to those who have served with distinction and devotion in the field of law enforcement. The medal is intended to recognize exceptional service or accomplishment in the field of law enforcement. Eligibility is not limited to peace officers but extends to the entire range of persons who make and enforce the law. This includes peace officers, attorneys, judges, prosecutors and legislators who have performed an exceptional act or service beyond that normally expected. The recipients are usually recommended by their superiors or peers for their accomplishments. The award may be presented posthumously. The medal may be presented to an individual only once.

Fire Safety Medal

Presented to an individual for accomplishments and/or outstanding contributions in an area of fire safety and service. The award is not limited to firefighters. It may be presented to recognize a variety of fire safety and services that have evolved into a highly technical and skilled profession with constant study, development and involvement by numerous dedicated citizens with a single goal, which is protecting human life and property by preventing injuries or casualties due to fire and chemicals. The medal maybe presented posthumously. The medal may be presented to an individual only once.

Emergency Medical Services Medal

Presented to an individual for accomplishments and/or outstanding contributions in the area of emergency medical services. The award is intended for paramedics, certified Emergency Medical Technicians, and others in the emergency medical field who have performed an act or service beyond which is normally expected. The medal may be presented posthumously.

Heroism Medal

Recognizes outstanding bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of imminent danger – i.e., acts which involve great personal courage and risk to the recipient. It is intended primarily for acts by civilians, not in uniform, but does not exclude police, firemen, EMS and SAR members. It is not intended to recognize acts that would have been covered in the performance of one’s normal duty, nor by medals for valor by the armed forces. Animals are not eligible for recognition. The medal may also be presented posthumously. An individual may receive this medal multiple times.

Life Saving Medal

Presented to those individuals who have acted to save a human life without necessarily placing their own life or themselves in imminent danger. The medal is intended primarily for acts by civilians not in uniform, however, police officers, fire fighters, emergency medical personal, lifeguards, and SAR Compatriots are not excluded from receiving this award. The medal is not intended to recognize acts that would otherwise qualify for military or another organization’s valor and, in all cases, the fact that the actions of the rescuer actually saved the life of the victim must be validated by EMS or medical personnel.

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