OKLAHOMA CITY ( KFOR ) – The state honored five Oklahoma first responders Wednesday morning for showing the highest standard of public service to their communities. Those announcements were made as part of the Oklahoma Awards Program.
It was standing room only in the state capitol blue room with several family members, co-workers and friends there to honor them for their sacrifice, bravery and courage.
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“We are fortunate to have the men and women that choose a life of service,” State Secretary of Public Safety & Chief Advisor Tricia Everest said.
The Oklahoma Distinguished Meritorious Service Medal, Medal of Valor, Blue Heart and Red Heart were given out. Families of those like Sgt. Robert Blaine “Bobby” Swartz accepted them on their behalf. He got the medal of valor and blue heart after being shot and killed while serving eviction paperwork alongside Deputy Mark Johns in 2022.