Los Angeles Firefighters Honored for Heroic Acts at VALOR Awards Ceremony
LOS ANGELES (KABC) — The courageous work of Los Angeles firefighters was celebrated at the annual VALOR awards ceremony this Wednesday, recognizing their bravery and selflessness in life-threatening situations. Members of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) were honored for their remarkable efforts that go beyond the call of duty.
Among the honorees was firefighter Shedrick Griggs, who received accolades for saving a man from a burning truck in the middle of the 134 Freeway in Burbank earlier this year. Dramatic video footage captured the rescue as Griggs, along with fellow firefighters, pulled the victim through a shattered windshield. Despite acknowledging his heroic action, Griggs humbly stated, "I don’t feel like a hero, I’m just doing what I was called to do." A dedicated firefighter since childhood, Griggs has been with LAFD for just two years.
Ethan Ramirez and apparatus operator Jake Peters were also recognized with a Medal of Merit. Peters, reflecting on a harrowing house fire response in January, expressed that faith guided him to save two individuals trapped inside. "I think about it quite a bit and I was happy the person made it out and successfully alive today," he remarked. Ramirez’s bravery shone through in February when he rescued a fellow firefighter from a collapsing roof, a move he believes any colleague would have made in the same circumstance.
The LAFD has responded to over 500,000 emergency calls last year alone, and they are on track to exceed that figure in 2024. The VALOR awards not only honor the firefighters’ heroics but also highlight their unwavering commitment to serving the community.
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