Officers, reporter honored

Nevada Police Officer David Henley and Sgt. Richard Lee Burdick each received a 2011 Medal of Honor for their roles in rescuing a frightened child from a July 23, 2011, apartment fire. Neighbors had alerted officers that the girl was still inside; and when they were unable to enter the apartment through normal avenues, the two police officers broke out a bedroom window and located the terrified child hiding in a corner of the bedroom. Unable to coax the 8-year-old girl to them, one officer climbed into the smoke-filled room, pulled the child out of danger and handed her to his partner. This award is presented to officers who performed an act of heroism in the face of personal injury and risk of his life for another, while showing not only courage but also professional judgment. Above are Jessica Widdoes, Mark Henley, Officer David Henley, Cara Henley, Shana Henley, Byron Henley and David Henley.

Above are Burdick and his wife Sandra. Nevada Mayor Brian Leonard and City Manager JD Kehrman also attended the event to support and congratulate the officers.

Nevada Daily Mail reporter Rusty Murry was this year's recipient of the Missouri Police Chiefs Mary Phelan Media Award, awarded to a media professional who stands out in their conduct and service to the public in reporting information that is both accurate and fair. The media person of the year should demonstrate writing such as the reporting of incidents, initiatives, and issues that are related to law enforcement or public safety. At right are Nevada Daily Mail publisher Julie Simpson, Murry, and Nevada Police Chief Graham Burnley. Submitted photos.