The VFW First Responders Certificate is presented to Officer Benjamin Sosa and Officer Michael Shewmaker of the O’Fallon, Illinois Police Department by Commander Darren Hlava and Past VFW National Commander Fritz Mihelcic on 07 January 2026.
The criteria for this certificate is in grateful recognition of unyielding adherence to the highest ideals of law enforcement in maintaining, preserving and protecting the lawful rights of all citizens.
The officers are being recognized for responding to a critical accident on 07 October 2025 involving a stranded motorist trapped between two collided vehicles, sustaining severe injuries to her legs. Their swift and decisive actions by applying tourniquets, managing shock, coordinating medical and traffic resources were nothing short of heroic. Because of their bravery, skill, and selflessness, the motorist’s life was saved.
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