Also honored at the ceremony were eight commands that were recognized with Unit Citations for outstanding service during the previous year.
Today is a solemn day, but also a proud one.
The heroes we honor today are individuals who kiss his or her family goodbye each day, put on a uniform, and walk directly into the path of danger to help people they have never met, saving the lives of others, sometimes at the price of their own. They are to be commended for their service, bravery, and sacrifices. The New York City Police Department Medal of Honor is the highest award that may be bestowed upon a member of the service. The recipients are chosen from the distinguished departmental record of those already honorably mentioned for individual acts of bravery in the line of duty. The Medal of Honor is specifically awarded for acts of gallantry and valor performed with knowledge of the risk involved, above and beyond the call of duty.