Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Illinois law enforcement community gathers again to honor true heroes among us:  those police officers who may have died in the line of duty, or who went above and the call while on duty.

23 officers from ten department statewide, including State Troopers, are the newest recipients of the Illinois Law Enforcement Medal of Honor.  A ceremony was held in Springfield marking the award Thursday.

“It’s difficult to review many of these cases,” said Brendan Kelly, Director, Illinois State Police.  “But, it also renews our faith in humanity, and our gratitude to the brave men and women who are willing to sacrifice their lives for justice and public safety.”

Governor JB Pritzker says while some lost their lives in the line of duty, others just became heroes doing the everyday police work.

“That bravery extends to the everyday moments of courage and compassion — stopping to help change a tire, or helping a lost child, or working parade duty,” said Gov. JB Pritzker.  “It is these small acts of service that allow our communities to live and to worship, and to celebrate freely , without fear.”

Recipients this year include:

Chicago Police Department
Officer Roy De La Huerta
Officer Michelle Drapala
Officer Edwin J. Gramajo
Officer Luis M. Huesca
Officer Omar Jimenez
Officer Carlos Martinez
Officer Enrique Martinez

Chillicothe Police Department
Officer David J. Buchanan

Cicero Police Department
Officer Luis Martinez
Officer Reynol Ramos

DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office
Officer Brian Bollow
Chief David Byrd
Sergeant Keunte Mallett
Deputy Christina M. Musil

East Moline Police Department
Sergeant William R. Lind

Granite City Police Department
Officer Douglas B. Nicoson

Illinois State Police
Trooper Clay M. Carns
Trooper Adam D. Fitts
Master Sergeant Ross A. Green
Trooper Corey S. Thompsen
Trooper Blake D. Thompson

Palatine Police Department
Officer Shane P. Murray

Rockford Police Department
Officer Jonathan A. Vargas

As for those whose lives were lost in the line of duty, “We will not forget those brave souls.  They will live forever in the lives they have touched, and in the communities that they protected.  May their memories be a blessing to use all,” said Pritzker, at the ceremony.