Yesterday, Thursday November 7th, Officer Kirsten Cardwell of the Springfield Police Department was recognized by the Governor of the State of Oregon and awarded the Law Enforcement Medal of Honor for bravely risking her life above and beyond the call of duty.

The Law Enforcement Medal of Honor is the highest honor bestowed upon members of the state’s law enforcement community. Established in 2005, it is awarded to officers who distinguish themselves by gallantry and fortitude at the risk of their life above and beyond the call of duty. Ofc. Cardwell, the third-ever recipient of the Medal of Honor, received the award due to her selfless and heroic actions during an incident on August 31st, 2023.

That morning, SPD officers responded to a call for service and knocked on the front door of a home. Unexpectedly, a man began firing a rifle at them from inside a residence. One officer was struck almost instantly and fell in the front yard, exposed in the line fire. Ofc. Cardwell, who herself had been struck by fragments from the fired rounds and had reached a relative position of safety, immediately left that position and returned to the officer, pulling him to safety and administering emergency medical care. Thanks to her heroic actions, the officer was able to make a full recovery and return to full duty.

“Recognizing and rewarding exceptional achievements is one of the greatest honors of my job,” Governor Kotek said. “Officer Cardwell exemplifies our law enforcement officers’ and first responders’ heroism, day in and day out. Her courage and selflessness inspire us all.”

“Officer Cardwell’s selfless commitment and courageousness is the purest demonstration of character there is. Her actions that day also represent the character of the men and women who fill the honorable profession of Law Enforcement, serving with bravery and distinction throughout this nation every day.” Springfield Police Department Chief Andrew Shearer