SPRINGFIELD — Officer Kirsten Cardwell of the Springfield Police Department was recently recognized by the Governor of the State of Oregon with the Law Enforcement Medal of Honor for 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.
“Officer Cardwell exemplifies our law enforcement officers’ and first responders’ heroism, day in and day out,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Her courage and selflessness inspire us all.”
Cardwell, the third-ever recipient of the Medal of Honor, was awarded for her actions during an incident on Aug. 31, 2023.
That morning, SPD officers responded to a call for service and knocked on a home’s front door. 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.
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. The officer fully recovered and has since returned to duty full-time.
“Officer Cardwell’s selfless commitment and courageousness is the purest demonstration of character there is,” said SPD Chief Andrew Shearer. “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.”
