A new award honoring Indiana first responders is now available.

The Hoosier First Responder Medal of Honor will be awarded to first responders in the state who are either killed or seriously injured in the line of duty. They also have to have gone above and beyond the call of duty. Indiana first responders like law enforcement officers, firefighters, corrections officers, or volunteers whose duties include rapid emergency response are eligible to receive the award.

State Representative Jim Lucas of Seymour wrote the law to make the award possible.

“This is one of my most meaningful pieces of legislation that I’ve authored in the General Assembly, as the sacrifice of our incredible first responders should never be forgotten. Through this new state award, we can honor those who put it all on the line in the name of service,” said Lucas.

State Representative Dave Hall of Norman says he couldn’t agree more with Lucas.

“Every day, first responders put their lives on the line to protect and serve our communities. This new award is a tribute to the bravery and selflessness of those who go beyond the call of duty, risking everything to keep us safe,” said Hall.

He says nominations for this award can be submitted by the first responder’s employer by going online to in.gov/dhs and clicking on special recognition requests on the left-hand side.