Clinton Establishes Public Safety Medal of Valor

WASHINGTON -- On June 30, President Clinton issued an Executive Order establishing a Presidential Medal of Valor for firefighters and law enforcement officers who show "extraordinary valor above and beyond the call of duty in the exercise of their official duties."

 

Both firefighters and paramedics, serving a public agency with or without compensation, and law enforcement officials are eligible to receive this award. Eligible law enforcement includes police, correctional, probation or parole officers.

 

The design of a medal and certificate will be submitted to the president by the Justice Department no later than December 1st. The president may select up to 10 recipients a year from among people recommended for it by the Attorney General.

 

This medal fills a void for America's emergency personnel. A Presidential Medal of Freedom is currently the highest civilian honor and the Medal of Honor is for valorous deeds in the military.

 

Legislation creating this award (H.R. 46 / S. 39) had passed both the House and Senate last year, but was still awaiting conference when President Clinton issued the Executive Order.

 

Recipients will be recommended by April 1 of each year and receive the award during "Police Week" in May.