The Gwinnett Chamber hosted its annual Valor Public Safety Awards on March 27 at the Gas South Convention Center, bringing together more than 350 attendees to honor the individuals who protect and serve Gwinnett County and its municipalities each day. Presented by Mobile Communications America and Motorola Solutions, the Valor Awards recognize excellence in public safety through acts of bravery, leadership, and service.

“Each year, this program reminds us that public safety is not just a profession — it’s a calling,” said Nick Masino, President & CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber. “The individuals recognized today represent the very best of Gwinnett, demonstrating courage and commitment to providing a safe community for our businesses and residents.”

This year’s program presented eight awards recognizing over a dozen public safety officials:

Medal of Merit, presented by AT&T: Marshal Michael Parker, City of Sugar Hill Marshal’s Office

Public Safety Person of the Year, presented by Green Financial Resources: Sergeant Jason Thomas, Gwinnett County Police Department

Public Safety Unit of the Year, presented by Walton Gas: Lawrenceville Police Department Crime Suppression Unit

Lifesaving Award, presented by Kaiser Permanente: Sergeant Christopher Bailey, Master Police Officer Steven Nunez, and Police Officer Senior Jacob Hugley, Gwinnett County Police Department

Civilian Partnership Award: Registered Nurse Mary Maka, Northside Gwinnett Hospital

Medal of Valor Awards, presented by Northside Hospital:

• Gold Medal of Valor: Captain Jeffrey DerCola and Firefighter III Paul Thaxton, Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services
• Silver Medal of Valor: Captain John McGriff, Lieutenant Anthony Weatherford, Driver Engineer Clint Rutledge, and Firemedic Senior Jonathan Dye, Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services
• Bronze Medal of Valor: Firemedic Senior Travis Button and Firefighter III Isaac Smith, Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services

Award recipients also received commemorative gift baskets filled with donated items from across the business community, collectively valued at more than $11,000.

The program included a moment of reflection honoring Officer Pradeep Tamang who was killed in the line of duty earlier this year and Master Police Officer David Reed who is currently recovering from the same incident. These brave heroes will be recognized at next year’s VALOR Awards. Learn more about the Gwinnett Chamber’s recognition events at GwinnettChamber.org/Programs.