On Wednesday, the state of Oklahoma recognized five first responders during the Oklahoma Awards Program, celebrating their exceptional service to their communities. The ceremony took place in a packed blue room at the state capitol, attended by family, friends, and co-workers of the honorees.
State Secretary of Public Safety and Chief Advisor Tricia Everest praised the dedication of these individuals who choose a life of service. Awards presented included the Oklahoma Distinguished Meritorious Service Medal, Medal of Valor, Blue Heart, and Red Heart.
Among the honorees, Sgt. Robert Blaine Bobby Swartz was posthumously awarded the Medal of Valor and Blue Heart after being shot and killed while serving eviction paperwork in 2022. His co-worker, Deputy Mark Johns, who survived the incident, also received these awards for his bravery during the attack, where he risked his life to try and save Swartz.
Additionally, families of Waynoka Firefighter Tayler Bradford and Chief Lonnie Bolar accepted Red Hearts on their behalf after both lost their lives in 2021 while attempting to rescue two people from a fire.
Ratliff City Police Chief Robert Thornton received the Distinguished Meritorious Service Medal for establishing a rural agency that collaborates with fire, medical, and emergency management services. While honored by the recognition, Thornton emphasized that his team deserved the accolades for their collective efforts in serving rural Oklahomans.
Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III reflected on the sacrifices made by the honorees, stating, They paid the ultimate sacrifice. They laid down their life.