Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping Oregon Safe

Oregon is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding Oregon first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

Officer Kirsten Cardwell (Springfield) — Officer Kirsten Cardwell of the Springfield Police Department received the Oregon Law Enforcement Medal of Honor—the state's highest law enforcement award—for her bravery during a 2023 shooting incident. When a fellow officer was struck by gunfire during a call, Cardwell, who was already injured by bullet fragments, left cover under active fire to pull the wounded officer to safety and administer life-saving aid. Her heroic actions ensured her colleague’s survival and full recovery. Cardwell is only the third officer in Oregon history to receive this honor. Read more here.

Sergeant Manny Herrera (Sandy) — While off duty at a restaurant in Boring, Sgt. Manny Herrera of the Sandy Police Department jumped into action to save a choking man’s life. Recognizing the emergency, Herrera performed the Heimlich maneuver and stayed with the man until EMS arrived. He was later presented with a Life Saving Medal by the Sandy City Council. Herrera credited his law enforcement training and emphasized the importance of being prepared, even when off the clock. Read more here.

Engineer Manny Sharp (Medford) — Off duty and barefoot, Engineer Manny Sharp of the Medford Fire Department rushed into a burning home to rescue three people — an act that earned him the 2024 Ben Franklin Award for Valor. Sharp kicked down the front door and pulled two teenagers to safety, then re-entered the home to save a third child, handing them through a window wrapped in a curtain. He also helped clear the area for arriving fire crews. His decisive, selfless actions saved lives and exemplified true courage. Read more here.

Firefighter Trevor Gammage (Ontario) — Volunteer firefighter Trevor Gammage was named Ontario Fire and Rescue’s 2024 Firefighter of the Year for his outstanding dedication and performance. A third-generation member of the department, Gammage responded to the most calls and trainings, and played a key role in containing a hazardous liquid natural gas fire in November 2024. His goal of becoming a full-time firefighter is driven by passion and years of hands-on experience. Gammage’s commitment to teamwork and continuous learning reflects the legacy of service in his family. Read more here.

Firefighter/EMT Greg Hunter (Oregon) — In March 2025, Oregon firefighter and EMT Greg Hunter was awarded the VFW’s EMT of the Year Medal for his lifetime of service and dedication to helping others. A former park ranger and conservation police officer, Hunter joined the fire department after retirement and continues to serve at age 65. Known for his selflessness and heart for helping, Hunter plans to keep going strong with no plans to retire. He credited his team and his family’s long-standing tradition of public service. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in Oregon to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!