Honoring Bravery & Sacrifice: Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor

Everyday, Public Safety Officers risk their lives to protect America's citizens and communities.

To honor that commitment, Congress passed the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor Act of 2001, which created the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor, the highest national award for valor by a Public Safety Officer.

An act of valor is considered to be above and beyond the call of duty, exhibiting exceptional courage, extraordinary decisiveness, and presence of mind, regardless of his or her personal safety in an attempt to save or protect a human life.

The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance, administers the Medal of Valor Program.

The medal is awarded annually by the President of the United States.

The head executive from agencies can nominate Public Safety Officers who’ve gone above and beyond the call of duty.

Nominations for the 2025 Medal of Valor must be submitted through the online nomination system, now open through October 3rd.

To learn more about the Medal of Valor Program or to nominate a Public Safety Officer, visit bja.ojp.gov/mov.