County Heroes Honored by Fire Department

Firefighters and citizens received awards for their bravery and quick thinking in dangerous situations at Tuesday night's 2012 awards ceremony hosted by the Anne Arundel County Fire Department.

Families, friends and local dignitaries came to applaud about 100 fire department personnel, rescue workers, residents and partner organizations who were recognized for their assistance in lifesaving efforts.

Lifeguards at Sandy Point State Park were honored for performing lifesaving CPR on a drowning victim at the park.

Chief Michael Cox, fire department spokesman, welcomed the crowd to the ceremony.

Fire Chief John Robert Ray then spoke of the dedication by the honorees to the community and their jobs.

"I reflect back on this past year and feel very proud of our department and our community," Ray said. "Service above self is at the very heart of what fire service is all about. Our award recipients exemplify that belief tonight and set an example to follow."

Rod Daniels of WBAL TV, coined an "Honorary Fire Chief" by the department, presented and recited the stories each award brought, naming the group our "heroes and sheroes" of the county.

Firefighters, rescue workers, detectives, police officers and citizens were praised for their outstanding work in critical situations and natural disasters. Awards were presented for heroic efforts in dealing with brush fires, hurricanes, drownings, boating accidents, earthquakes and for providing CPR to victims.

Anne Arundel County Emergency Management personnel also were recognized.