Law enforcement officials, employees of the Sheriff's Office and civilians attended the Monroe County Sheriff's Office 14th annual Awards Luncheon today.
Sheriff Patrick O'Flynn called it a proud day for the office, as the awards recognize the accomplishments of Sheriff's Office employees, as well as citizens from the community.
Awards went to some for their heroic acts, but also for other types of distinguished service.
"We take a lot of things for granted but when some of the people step up to the plate and they go above and beyond the expectations, it's really gratifying to us, and we can now publicly recognize that," he said.
The Sheriff's Civilian Award went to Adam Henry and Jason Ricker, who pulled a driver to safety out of a burning car just before the car was engulfed in flames.
Ricker says he's a little embarrassed to get an award from the Sheriff's Office.
"But proud to be standing next to people who are so deserving. They do it day in and day out, and they do it for very little thanks," he said.
Both men say they would do the same thing again.
The Deputy of the Year award went to Michael Simonelli, who said he was honored just to be nominated.
"I'm a deputy sheriff jailor, I work inside the jail, supervising the inmates, getting them to and from court, making sure all their basic needs are met. Just care and custody of the inmates," he said.
Sheriff O'Flynn says all the award winners embody the core values of the office, respect, integrity, teamwork and excellence.
Nineteen people received Sheriff's Office awards at today's luncheon at the RIT Inn and Conference Center in Henrietta.