SPRINGFIELD – A Metropolis firefighter was among four honored with the Medal of Valor award at Tuesday’s 31st Annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial and Medal of Honor Ceremony in Springfield.
Captain Clay Childers of the Metropolis Fire Department and three others were given this award by the State of Illinois for an act of heroism or bravery that clearly demonstrated courage and dedication in the face of danger while in the performance of duty.
The annual event honors fallen firefighters and those who went above and beyond their duties.
Meanwhile, during the event, five fallen firefighters were honored for their sacrifice during the Fallen Firefighter Memorial. Eight firefighters received the Medal of Honor, one firefighter received the Firefighter Excellence Award, four units received the Firefighter Excellence “Unit Citation” Award, another firefighter received a Certificate of Recognition, and three firefighters received the State Fire Marshal Life Safety Award.
The awards presented Tuesday recognized heroic actions during 2023. Nominations were reviewed and winners were selected by the Illinois Fire Fighting Medal of Honor Committee.
