The Red Cross’s Lifesaving Merit Award was started in 1911, and recognizes professionals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to save or sustain life by using skills and knowledge learned in a Red Cross training services course. "This award is prestigious and has a legacy behind it," said Misty Bruce, Executive Director of the Red Cross.

Mayor Wantz told the assembled audience: "It confirms what those in our community already believe, that our police officers are heroes, and they don’t do what they do for the accolades that will be received today, they do it because of their compassion and their professionalism for this community."

The award ceremony recognized the outstanding officers of Taneytown Police, and their efforts that too often go unnoticed, but nevertheless crucially hold the community together through dedication, he said.

On May 17, Patrolman First Class Ralph Williams helped to save the life of a three-year-old boy who was choking at his home in the city. Williams arrived on scene to find a woman attempting to remove an item from the unconscious child’s airway. Williams initiated back blows, dislodging the obstruction, and the toddler opened his eyes and was able to stand up and walk on his own. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) then transported the boy to the hospital for further evaluation.

Williams, a city police officer since 2018, said he was "forever grateful to protect and serve everyone in Taneytown."

Patrolman First Class Officer Adam Romero was also lauded for his commitment to duty with lifesaving efforts. On July 31, 2021, Romero helped save the life of an adult woman who was struck by a vehicle. Romero arrived on scene to find the woman lying on the ground suffering from traumatic injury to her lower extremities and life threatening bleeding. Recognizing the urgency, Romero took action by applying a tourniquet before EMS took over patient care and Romero went on to perform incident investigation.

The woman whose life Romero saved spoke at the ceremony recognizing him as "my hero and I will never forget him."

Taneytown Police Officer Training Coordinator Steven Sakadales was also recognized for ensuring fellow officers had the skill sets necessary to provide lifesaving efforts.

Heroes are an amazing breed of people who come in all shapes and sizes, "but a hero must be inspired," Bruce said.