2026 Joshua M. Freeman First Responder Awards

The Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to honor the outstanding police officers, paramedics, EMTs and firefighters who help keep our local communities safe throughout the year. The Joshua M. Freeman First Responder Awards Ceremony, formerly known as the Valor Awards, is presented by the Carl M. Freeman Companies. For over 20 years, this ceremony has provided due recognition and honor to the incredible men and women in local First Responder companies and departments for their service and dedication to our community.
 

Each participating Company and Department will submit a nomination for the 2026 EMT, Firefighter, Officer, and Paramedic of the Year to be honored during the ceremony.
Nominations that have been submitted as "eligible" for consideration of the Overall Valor Award will be submitted to the event committee members and all participating Chiefs and Captains for a vote.

The Good Samaritan Award, sponsored by Bethany Beach Books, will be presented to a local citizen who has demonstrated courage, skill, and resourcefulness in an effort to help someone in need.

 

Attendance for department Chiefs and Honorees is complimentary.
Guests of awardees & dignitaries are invited to join for $30

This year's luncheon will be hosted at
Coastal Kitchen at Bear Trap Dunes.

Entree Options

Chicken Picatta
Pan-seared chicken breast with lemon-caper butter, angel hair pasta & grilled rapini

Chopped Sirloin Steak
Served with caramelized onions, mushrooms, pan gravy, shredded potato cake,
fine herbs & baby malibu carrots

Vegetable Strudel
Served in puff-pastry, seasonal vegetable ratatouille, & red pepper coulis

Dessert

Chocolate Bread Pudding with Creme Anglaise