Several members of the LAPPL Board were proud to attend last Thursday’s 49th Annual Medal of Valor awards ceremony, when the LAPD presented its highest and most prestigious award to 17 of its finest at the Grand Ballroom at Hollywood & Highland. As has been the tradition of the LAPD for 49 years, the officers received the Medal of Valor for knowingly and willingly placing themselves in harm's way, whether or not they were on duty.

Fourteen of the officers who received medals were involved in what is referred to as the Welby Way incident. On February 7, 2008, a 20-year-old gunman who had killed his father and brother barricaded himself in his parents’ home, causing a standoff when SWAT officers attempted to rescue additional hostages.

Receiving the Medal of Valor for their roles in this incident were: Officers David Keortge, Thomas Chinappi, James Veenstra, German Hurtado, Randal Simmons, Floyd Curry, Anthony Samuelson, Stephen Scallon, Michael Barker, Michael Odle, George Ryan, Mark Mireles and Bonnie Lehigh, and Sergeant Charles Buttitta.

Officer Mireles had also received two previous Medals of Valor, making him the first LAPD officer in history to receive the award three times.

Providing one of the event’s most poignant moments, a visibly moved Chief Beck presented a posthumous medal to Matthew Simmons, son of Officer Randal David Simmons. Killed in the Welby Way incident, Officer Simmons, a 27-year veteran, was LAPD's first SWAT officer to die in the line of duty.

Officers Steven Beumer of Hollywood Division, who was off duty at the time, and Alonso Menchaca of Mission area were awarded medals for their diligent and lifesaving efforts in rescuing the trapped driver of a burning vehicle on December 22, 2007.

Officer Eric Hammerschmitt received a medal for his heroic attempts to rescue a man and his daughter in another burning vehicle incident on the San Diego freeway on June 1, 2008. He managed to pull the driver to safety and rushed back to save the daughter. Sadly, despite Officer Hammerschmitt’s courageous actions, neither of the victims survived their injuries.

The Board of Directors of the LAPPL congratulates the 2010 recipients of the Medal of Valor. Your dedication to the highest standards of law enforcement, combined with extraordinary courage and bravery, are an inspiration to all who serve with you.