2025 Heroism Award Recipients
Darrin Coverdale, Adam DeLucia, Mario Glover, Patricia Hunt, Carol Lacey, Jams Pyle, and Crystal Reaves - Department of Transportation
When a coworker was found unresponsive in a locked vehicle, this team of DelDOT employees immediately sprang into action, calling 911 and working quickly to gain access. Once inside, team members began life-saving measures without hesitation. CPR was initiated, an AED was retrieved, and responders worked together seamlessly until emergency medical services arrived and assumed care.
Their swift, selfless, and coordinated actions were critical in sustaining their coworker until advanced medical help arrived and ultimately saved a life.
Brian Downward, David Faulkner, and Waylon Mabrey - Department of Transportation
On their way to work, Brian, David, and Waylon came upon a serious crash involving a school bus that had struck a bridge. Waylon, drawing on his experience as a firefighter, immediately boarded the bus, ensured that the children were safe and uninjured, called 911, and assisted the driver, who was experiencing a medical emergency. At the same time, Brian and David stepped in to manage traffic and secure the scene until help arrived. Thanks to their quick thinking and teamwork, they were able to ensure the safety of the children, the driver, and the traveling public - demonstrating exceptional dedication and professionalism.
Mary Clark, Department of Transportation
While traveling to Dover, Mary noticed something unusual – a driver stopped along the road, placing a rifle case into a vehicle. Trusting her instincts, she reported it right away, providing a key lead for investigators. Her observation helped the E-ZPass team and Delaware State Police quickly identify the vehicle, recover a missing military rifle, and bring charges against the individual involved.
Throughout the process, Mary remained confident and clear in her account, demonstrating professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility. Her vigilance and commitment to public safety played a critical role in resolving serious threats and protecting the community.
Stewart Douglas, Department of Transportation
During a winter storm, Stewart Douglass was checking road conditions when he spotted a vehicle with downed wires and no signs the driver had exited. Recognizing something wasn’t right, he quickly called for help. When responders arrived, they found the driver unconscious and in need of immediate medical attention after the crash.
Thanks to Stewart’s quick thinking and attention to detail, the driver was rescued and received care in time, which likely prevented far more harm or death due to prolonged exposure to extreme cold.
Christopher Coulston, Jason Leshem, and Greg Neal, Department of Transportation
While heading to an assignment, Chris, Jason, and Greg noticed a woman lying at a bus stop and immediately pulled over to help. Realizing she was suffering from heat exposure and had likely been there for some time, Greg called for emergency assistance.
Jason and Chris stayed with her, keeping her safe and comfortable until EMTs arrived. Thanks to their quick response and care, she received the medical attention she needed.
James Rash and Trevor Rummel, Department of Transportation
When a brush fire broke out near I-495 and 12th Street, James and Trevor were among the first to respond. Seeing the fire quickly spreading toward major bridges, they didn’t hesitate – using only fire extinguishers, they began working to contain it until additional help arrived.
Their quick, decisive actions helped slow the fire and protect critical infrastructure, demonstrating real courage and commitment well beyond their normal duties.
Stephen Bayer, Derek Sapp, Ryan Schroder, Randhir Sharma, and Kelly Valencik - Department of Transportation
When a coworker began choking during lunch and was unable to breathe or speak, Ryan immediately recognized the emergency and stepped in to help. Staying calm, he administered the Heimlich maneuver, while Randy joined to assist, and others quickly called 911.
As she began to recover, the team continued to support her - ensuring she was safe, comfortable, and never alone until she stabilized. Thanks to the quick, coordinated actions of Stephen, Derek, Ryan, Randhir, and Kelly, a potentially life-threatening situation was brought under control.
Mark Ferguson, Department of Health and Social Services
During a routine client visit, Mark quickly realized something wasn’t right. What initially seemed like minor symptoms turned out to be signs of a possible stroke. Acting fast, he made sure the client was safe, contacted family, and called 911. He then calmly reassured the client and encouraged them to accept medical care.
Because of Mark’s quick thinking and steady presence, the client received timely treatment that may have prevented a much more serious outcome.
Andrea Flores-Cornejo, Dan Logan, Maria Mesias-Tatnall, Jenna Milecki, Guillermo Santiago, and Paige Schmittinger - Department of Justice
After bravely coming forward to help secure a conviction in a domestic violence case, a woman was later detained, separated from her children, and placed in deportation proceedings – despite holding a special visa intended to protect her from removal. In response, Andrea, Dan, Jenna, Guillermo, Paige, and Maria acted quickly, working together to advocate on her behalf and navigate a complex and sensitive situation.
Through a coordinated legal effort and personal commitment, including hands-on support to help bring her home, they secured her release and united her with her family, ensuring her safety and well-being during an incredibly difficult time.
Hayley Mehalshick, Savannah Rust, and Amada West - Department of Labor
When a coworker began experiencing chest pain and discomfort, Hayley quickly recognized the seriousness of the situation and called 911. As the employees’ condition worsened, Savannah and Amanda rushed to retrieve the AED and followed its instructions, ready to begin CPR if needed.
Thanks to their quick thinking and calm response, paramedics were able to take over within minutes, ensuring their colleague received critical medical care.