What does it mean to be a hero? There are many different answers, but two Walton County Sheriff's Deputies have earned this title after saving two young lives.
At Friday's ceremony in Walton County, the American Police Hall of Fame presented Deputies Chad Biernacki and Tommy Thillet with a lifesaving medal and certificate. If it wasn't for their heroism, two babies might not be here today.
They were honored as heroes, but they say it's all in a days work.
"Mine was a call for service that I had the opportunity to go to. I was, in a way the closest one to the call," said Deputy Chad Biernacki.
"It feels good. You know, some people are calling us heroes but to me we're just doing a job," added Deputy Tommy Thillet.
But on two days in late April, Biernacki and Thillet saved the lives of two babies. Biernacki saved a 6 day old child struggling to breath and Thillet rescued a nine month old choking on a coin.
For Biernacki, Friday's ceremony was significant because of a few special people in attendance: his family.
"It means a lot to have my family here to see me receive an award, especially my daughter. When I walked away it really hit home, so it was neat for her to be here to see me receive the award," said Biernacki.
A stoic but appreciative Thillet called the chance to help a matter of fate.
"We're all out here doing a job and everybody likes to help somebody and we were just in the right place at the right time," said Thillet
National President of the Federation of Police and Concerned Citizens, Dennis Wise, presented the men with their own certificate and medal.
He's reminded each time he presents such an award that officers consider this a duty.
"Not one of these guys that receive this award considers themselves a hero. They're just doing their job. But, they go beyond doing just their job when they lifesave or when they rush into a building where the guy is shooting and drag people to safety. It's more than just doing your job. It's going above and beyond," said Wise.
Their award serves as a reminder that you never know when a typical "day at the office" will turn into a chance to save lives.
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