Contact:
Paula Hartman (609) 498-7727 info@mercer200club.com
The 200 Club of Mercer County Honors Two Police Officers with Valor Awards
Bill Baroni Delivers Keynote
MERCER COUNTY, June 14 — On June 8, 2011, the 200 Club of Mercer County welcomed its largest crowd ever to the organization’s annual luncheon to honor the dedicated service of the police, fire and safety officials that place their lives in danger every day to protect the citizens of Mercer County. The 200 Club of Mercer County is a local nonprofit organization that provides financial assistance to the families of public safety and rescue personnel who are killed in the line of duty. The annual luncheon is the club’s largest fund-raiser and serves as a celebration of the valor, professionalism and unwavering commitment that Mercer County’s public safety officials put forth on the job.
Two police officers from Hamilton—Tom White and Nick Avanzato—were presented with the club’s highest recognition at the event, the Valor Award, for their heroic actions at the scene of a fire in Hamilton Township this past January. The Valor Award is given to individuals who have committed acts of bravery, beyond the call of duty, and face imminent personal risk.
“Officers White and Avanzato, like so many safety and rescue personnel, put their own lives in danger to protect others,” said Greg Blair, president of the 200 Club of Mercer County. “Their courageous action at the tragic fire last January saved lives. They are quiet real-life heroes that embody all that the Valor Award represents.”