Montgomery County Honors First Responders for Exceptional Service at the 51st Annual Public Safety Awards

For Immediate Release: Monday, March 23, 2026

Montgomery County recognized dozens of public safety professionals for their courage, leadership, and dedication in protecting the community during the 51st Annual Public Safety Awards ceremony held recently. The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce cosponsored the event.

"Without fail, Montgomery County's public safety professionals stand ready to render aid, even in the most challenging conditions," said Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-8). "I extend my deepest gratitude to all of them for their service, including the exceptional officers and employees honored during the 51st Annual Public Safety Awards. In Congress, we are committed to fighting for robust federal funding for public safety so these heroes can continue doing their jobs keeping our communities safe."

The awards recognize acts of valor, lifesaving service, teamwork, and commitment demonstrated by public safety employees over the past year. The event also highlighted the critical role played by the broader network of public safety partners who support residents during emergencies, including, crisis intervention and emergency management professionals.

"Montgomery County's public safety professionals embody the very best of what it means to serve," said Rep. April McClain Delaney (MD-6). "We honor their heroic acts and the courage and compassion they demonstrate every day in protecting our community. When our residents need them most, they answer the call without hesitation. Their dedication reminds us of our responsibility to ensure they always have the support, resources, and gratitude they deserve."

"Every day, the men and women of Montgomery County's public safety community put service above self," said Lt. Governor Aruna Miller. "From acts of extraordinary bravery to the quiet professionalism that keeps our communities safe, the honorees represent the very best of Maryland. I am grateful for their courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to protecting our neighbors. Maryland is stronger and safer because of their service."

Montgomery County leaders, Rep. Jamie Raskin, Rep. April McClain Delaney, and Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller joined County Executive Marc Elrich and County Council President Natali Fani-González at the awards event.

The event, presented by Montgomery County Government, in partnership with the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, honored:

Public Safety Partners:

Bronze Valor Awards

Honorable Mention Valor Awards

Unit Citations

• 30 Members of the MCPD SWAT and Emergency Response Team including:
  • Sgt. Kevin Ream, MCPD
  • Sgt. Michael Skidmore, MCPD
  • Sgt. Jeremy Smalley, MCPD
  • Physician's Assistant Robert Ryan, MCPD
  • Police Officer IIIs:
    • Evan Clarke, MCPD
    • Michael Chindblom, MCPD
    • Austin Fogarty, MCPD
    • Dan Gunn, MCPD
    • Michael Polcsa, MCPD
• Battalion Chief Eric Ramacciotti, MCFRS
• Lt. Michael Barclay, MCFRS
• Lt. Daniel Cochran, MCFRS
• Mobile Integrated Health Manager, Avital Graves, MCFRS
• Firefighters:
  • Samuel Dmuchowski, MCFRS
  • Joseph Jenkins, MCFRS
  • Firefighter / Paramedic, James Tyler, MCFRS
• Master Firefighters
  • Nicholas Nosbisch, MCFRS
  • Bradley Walters, MCFRS

Public Safety Partner Awards

Montgomery County's DHHS Mobile Crisis Outreach Team members:

Members of the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (OEMHS), Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM), University of Maryland (UMD), and Maryland Environmental Service (MES) for the design and implementation of a Mesonet Weather Monitoring System

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) for their partnership with the Montgomery County Police Department, expanding access to higher education

County Executive Recognition Award

"Montgomery County's first responders put their lives on the line each day to protect and serve our residents," said County Council President Natali Fani-González. "As Council president, I'm committed to listening to the needs of our public safety community and providing our first responders with the resources necessary to do their jobs. The Public Safety Awards are an important way to lift up extraordinary acts of courage, and it's my honor to participate in recognizing our community heroes in partnership with the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce."

Many of the honorees were joined by family members and colleagues who attended the ceremony to celebrate their achievements and service to the community.

"Each year, the Public Safety Awards give us an opportunity to recognize the remarkable bravery and dedication of the men and women who protect our County," said MCPD Police Chief Marc Yamada. "These honors reflect more than individual acts of courage. They highlight a shared commitment to service across every public safety agency in Montgomery County. Whether it is an act of valor, exceptional teamwork during a critical incident or years of service that strengthen our community, each award reminds us of the lasting impact these professionals have on the people we serve."

The Public Safety Awards ceremony is the largest event of its kind in the region.

Honorees were nominated and selected by the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation; Maryland-National Capital Park Police-Montgomery County Division; Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service; Montgomery County Department of Police; and the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, as well as the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.

Students from Montgomery County Public Schools who participate in cadet and public safety education programs, such as the Justice, Law and Society program, also attended the ceremony. Their presence reflected the County's commitment to preparing the next generation of public safety professionals.

"Every day, our first responders demonstrate professionalism, compassion, and courage in moments that matter most," said Angela Franco, president and CEO, Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. "Their commitment helps ensure that Montgomery County remains a safe and strong place for our businesses, families, and neighborhoods to thrive."

###