The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce honored the heroism of Alexandria Fire, EMS/EMT, Sheriff and Police departments at the 25th Annual Valor Awards Luncheon. Hundreds of people attended the Tuesday event.  

"To arrest a criminal, to rescue a citizen from a burning vehicle - we are blessed that these men and women rise above the situation," said Andrew Palmieri, chair-elect of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce. "They risk their own health, safety and lives for the good of the community... Everyone in our city is in their debt."

Alexandria Sheriff's Deputy Teneka King was awarded the silver medal. Last fall, King was driving on I-64 to Virginia Beach for a vacation when it happened. A speeding car was on her bumper with its high beams blazing in her rear-view mirror. The driver of the car jerked the steering wheel in an attempt to pass King, but lost control of the car, hit a median and then flipped over and struck barriers on the other side of the highway. King stopped her car and rescued two people from the burning car moments before it exploded in flames.    

Seven Alexandria police officers were commended for apprehending two violent suspects. On July 28, 2010, police were alerted that a vehicle pursuit was heading toward Old Town. The suspects allegedly stole the car in Maryland that morning and severely beat the owner with a hammer. The suspects also allegedly used the same car in a hotel robbery in Arlington. The suspects crashed into another car at Cameron and Fairfax streets. One of the men was arrested. The other ran into City Hall and was apprehended by K-9 Officer Carlos Rolon and his dog Ajax.

For their bravery in the incident, Rolon and Ajax received a silver award. Richard Magnum, Investigator Brett McCabe, Officer Michael Nugent, Officer Ryann Staab, Investigator Charles Young and K-9 Officer Kim Hendricks and his dog Max received bronze awards.