Public Service Awards – Florida Society SAR

Awards honoring individuals who have dedicated themselves to uplifting others and strengthening the community.

Available Awards

Emergency Medical Services Commendation Medal

For accomplishments and/or outstanding contributions in emergency medical services.

• Intended for paramedics, EMTs, and emergency medical professionals
• For acts beyond normally expected service
• May be presented posthumously
• One award per individual (no Oak Leaf Clusters)

Law Enforcement Commendation Medal

For those who have served with distinction in law enforcement.

• Not limited to peace officers
• Includes attorneys, judges, prosecutors, legislators
• For exceptional service beyond normal expectations
• Usually recommended by supervisors or peers
• May be presented posthumously
• One award per individual

Heroism Commendation Medal

For outstanding bravery and self-sacrifice in face of imminent danger.

• Primarily for civilian acts (not in uniform)
• Does not exclude police, fire, EMS, SAR members
• Not for acts covered in normal duty performance
• Animals not eligible
• May be presented posthumously
• May be received multiple times (Oak Leaf Clusters authorized)

Fire Safety Commendation Medal

For accomplishments in fire safety and service.

• Not limited to firefighters
• Recognizes various fire safety and service contributions
• May be presented posthumously
• One award per individual

Life Saving Commendation Medal

For individuals who acted to save a human life without necessarily placing their own life in imminent danger.

• Primarily for civilians not in uniform
• Police, fire, EMS, lifeguards, SAR Compatriots eligible
• Must validate that actions saved victim’s life
• One award per incident regardless of victims
• Nominations within 24 months of incident
• May be received multiple times

Special Recognition Chapters

Chapters presenting awards in all five categories:

• Flagler
• Naples
• Saramana
• Tampa

Guidelines adapted from SAR Handbook, Volume V: Individual Medals and Awards (effective October 10, 2024)

Recognition Medals

Award Medals