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Black Hawk College recently honored area first responders for their contributions, sacrifices and dedication to public service.

adult holding microphone standing next to girl who is holding award and her mother

Award recipients Michael Arp and Peyton Sallows with Peyton’s mother, Ali Sallows

Community members were invited to nominate first responders who have demonstrated a willingness to place their own lives at risk for others or have dedicated themselves to the service of others. Events/incidents that occurred in the 12 months prior to nomination were considered.

Jodi Becker handing award to East Moline Police Chief Jeff Ramsey

Jeff Ramsey, East Moline police chief, accepting an award on behalf of Sgt. William Lind from Jodi Becker, BHC associate professor

The college received 58 award nominations for the 2023 First Responder Awards and selected four recipients.

Deputy fire chief being handed award by BHC student

Travis Noyd, Moline deputy fire chief, accepting an award on behalf of his department from Hope Trussen, BHC student

First Responder Hero Award
Sgt. William Lind
East Moline Police Department

First Responder Agency of the Year Award
Moline Fire Department

Civilian First Responder Hero Award
Peyton Sallows, 7-year-old from Port Byron

Certificate of Appreciation
Michael Arp
Genesis Ambulance Services

Read about the BHC First Responder Awards and Certificate of Appreciation 2023 (PDF) recipients.

The awards were presented at the 4th Annual First Responders Appreciation & Criminal Justice Career Exploration Day. More than 100 high school and college students attended and were able to talk to representatives from 18 first-responder agencies about career opportunities.

See photos from the event on Facebook.


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