The city of Florence and the Florence Police Department honored two first responders with the Medal of Valor at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
Officer Jacob Sander of the Florence Police Department and Sergeant Jon Ball of the Boone County Sheriff’s Department were awarded the honor for their actions during an incident on Jan. 12.
“The Medal of Valor is to be awarded to an officer for exceptional bravery at imminent risk of serious bodily injury, the recipient demonstrating exceptional courage of performing a voluntary course of action in an extremely dangerous situation,” said Chief Jeff Mallery.
He shared the story of what happened at a pond near Rio Grande Circle on a frigid evening last January.
“On the evening of Jan. 12, 2025, officer Sander responded to a woman calling for help after falling through the ice while attempting to rescue her dogs on a partially frozen pond,” said Mallery. “Stranded about 100 feet from the shore and suffering from extreme cold and exhaustion, she was unable to escape. Without hesitation and with complete disregard for his own safety, officer Sander crawled across the ice to reach her, to keep her head above water. As the ice was beginning to break beneath him, sergeant Ball arrived, grabbed hold of officer Sander and assisted in pulling the woman from the water before dragging her to safety.”
“Their swift and courageous action undoubtedly saved a life by placing themselves at imminent risk of serious injury, officer Sander and sergeant Ball demonstrated exceptional bravery and selflessness, setting a true example for the law enforcement profession. So please join us in congratulating sergeant Ball and officer Sander.”
Mallery and Colonel Les Hill of the Boone County Sheriff’s Office gave the officers their medals to a round of applause from all in attendance. The woman rescued by the pair and her family were on hand to witness the event and share their thanks.
“I understand how pets can be part of the family, and you wouldn’t want to see anything happen to them,” said Mayor Julie Aubuchon. “So I can understand trying to save your pets, and I’m glad that our officers and deputy were there to help save you as well. I’m glad you’re here. Thank you to the police family for coming here tonight as well to support your fellow officers.”