For Immediate Release
Public Affairs Division
909-387-3700
[email protected]
On Thursday, April 9, 2026, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department hosted its annual Exceptional Service Awards and proudly recognized 56 recipients. These recipients included deputies, sheriff’s volunteers, community members, doctors, and seven U.S. Marines from Twentynine Palms. Forty-seven Lifesaving Awards, seven Medals of Valor, and two Frank Bland Medals of Valor were presented for extraordinary actions taken across 23 separate incidents in 2025.
These incidents reflect the very best of public service—moments where courage, quick thinking, and selflessness made the difference between life and death. Among those honored were deputies who rendered critical aid to gunshot victims, revived children who had stopped breathing, and executed complex rescue operations to save injured hikers in remote and dangerous terrain. Their actions exemplify the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting life under the most challenging circumstances.
Deputy Andrew Nunez, who made the ultimate sacrifice during a violent incident, and in an act of extraordinary courage, deliberately distracted an armed suspect, allowing a victim the opportunity to escape to safety. Deputy Nunez was fatally wounded during the encounter. The Frank Bland Medal of Valor, the Department’s highest honor, was awarded posthumously in recognition of his profound bravery displayed in the face of imminent danger.
“This ceremony is a solemn reminder of the risks our deputies face and the courage they carry into every call,” said Sheriff Shannon Dicus. “Each of these recipients represents the very heart of this profession and community, placing the safety of others above their own. We are especially mindful of the ultimate sacrifice made by our fallen deputy, whose bravery will never be forgotten.”
Please use this link to watch the ceremony:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZFsRZSx1-KA
