San Clemente "Heroes" Acknowledged At American Red Cross 2017 Heroes Luncheon

SAN CLEMENTE, CA — What does it take to be a hero? The American Red Cross of Orange County recently honored three San Clemente local citizens who have gone above and beyond to make the community a better place.

"It's all about recognizing the incredible feats of unsung heroes living and working in our community," Regional CEO of the American Red Cross Desert to the Sea Region, Linda Voss said.

The second 2017 Heroes Luncheon was held on May 3, honoring 12 individuals in 11 categories, all acknowledged at the event created to raise public awareness of the Red Cross's mission.

Of those honored, Bennett Jonas, a San Clemente native, received the Life Saving Award. The San Clemente High School graduate was brought into national spotlight when he helped rescue seven boys from an icy park in New York's Central Park in February of this year.

Jonas, a 23-year-old male model, along with an Australian male model Ethan Turnbull, both aided in the rescue. But Jonas took part in San Clemente's Junior Lifeguards as a young man, and relied on his instincts.

Also, Orange County Sheriff's Deputies Jeremy Buraglia and Brandon Koenig, both of San Clemente, were honored in the First Responders category.
Both men conducted CPR on a 75-year-old man suffering a heart attack in San Clemente in November of 2016, and were able to revive him, the San Clemente Times reported.

“In 2017, the American Red Cross Serving Orange County celebrates 100 years of service. For a century, the Red Cross has been there for the residents of Orange County, whenever and wherever needed. From disaster response to health and safety classes, to lifesaving blood collection and support of military members, the Red Cross has helped make our community safer and more prepared for what may come in the next 100 years,” the American Red Cross said in release. “We couldn’t do it without our heroes - our volunteers, supporters, and those who share in the spirit of the Red Cross Mission.”

Nearly 300 business leaders, elected officials, sponsors and organization supporters were in attendance for one unforgettable afternoon that also raised $80,000 for the American Red Cross OC chapter, according to the redcross.org. Honorees included:

• Lifesaving Award – Bennett Jonas, San Clemente native
• Animal Welfare Award – Tammy Osborn, OC Animal Care
• Community Partner Award – Emergency Response Team at Kelley Blue Book, (headquarters located in Irvine, Calif.)
• First Responder Award – Officers Jeremy Buraglia and Brandon Koenig, Orange County Sheriff’s Department
• Military Award – Harry Humphries
• Youth Award – Chaney Lieberman, Orange County Sherriff Explorer Post and President of TACK (Tacking Action Centered on Kids)
• Humanitarian Award – Celebrity Chef Sir Bruno Serato of Catrina’s Club and Anaheim White House Restaurant
• Blood Services Award – Steven Pierce, long-time blood donor of 31 years Lifetime Contribution Award – Captain/Paramedic Steve Concialdi, Orange County Fire Authority
• Committee’s Choice Award – Captain Stephen Horner, Orange County Fire Authority
• Certificate of Merit Award – Jere Greene, American Red Cross Volunteer

Photos courtesy of OCFA, American Red Cross