(MIAMI, February 10, 2014) – Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) hosted its fourteenth annual Medal Day Ceremony Saturday, February 8, 2014. The ceremony which honored the recipients of the Employee Valor and Excellence Awards was held at the MDFR Training Facility in Doral.

“I am delighted to share this day with you as we all honor the selfless brave men and women who have gone well beyond the call of duty for the safety and security of our fellow residents, neighbors and friends,” said Miami-Dade County Commissioner Linda Bell. “I know firsthand, the level of gallantry in action that the men and women of our fire rescue department have delivered when called upon.”

One hundred firefighters were recognized in five different categories, with the highest being the Exceptional Service Award. This is the fourth highest honor awarded to MDFR sworn personnel for performing acts of outstanding achievement of departmental goals and objectives, exemplifying devotion to duty in the furtherance of the fire rescue profession, and serving the community above and beyond the ordinary call of duty. Award recipients included firefighters who saved a person from a near drowning to those who saved two children from a burning home.

“The most important thing to remember is that the honorees were nominated and chosen by their peers for each award,” said Fire Chief Dave Downey. “This is a testament to the service these men and women provide.”

Metro-Dade Firefighters Local 1403 President Al Cruz stated, “What the public may describe as extraordinary and heroic actions, our firefighters call business as usual, part of their normal duties.”

Family members, elected officials, local police and fire chiefs from the entire South Florida area were in attendance to witness this award ceremony. This event is modeled in the rich tradition of FDNY’s award ceremonies.