The Detroit Public Safety Foundation will host the 14th Annual Above & Beyond Awards Ceremony on November 12 at Ford Field. This signature event honors the extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and dedication of Detroit’s first responders while bringing together civic leaders, families, and community partners for an inspiring celebration of service.

 

Each year, members of the Detroit Police Department and Detroit Fire Department are recognized with the Medal of Valor for exceptional acts of bravery and the Purple Heart Award for those injured or killed in the line of duty. The ceremony also honors excellence in emergency medical services through the Emergency Medical Merit Award and recognizes outstanding community-nominated service with the Public Safety Distinguished Service Award.

​

In addition to honoring first responders, the event celebrates civilian community partners through the City Change Maker Award and the Public Safety Partner Award, recognizing individuals and organizations that have made a meaningful impact on public safety in Detroit.

​

In 2025, 37 first responders were recognized for acts of bravery and service. Their stories created unforgettable moments throughout the evening—from a grateful fire survivor joining the firefighter who rescued him on stage, to powerful body-camera footage showing officers saving a victim from a burning vehicle. One young girl proudly shouting, “That’s my daddy!” captured the heart of the ceremony and highlighted the deep impact these heroes have on the families who support them every day.

​

A highlight of the 2025 ceremony was the presentation of the City Change Maker Award by Eric Larson, CEO of the Downtown Detroit Partnership, to Bob Riney, CEO of Henry Ford Health. Mayor-Elect Mary Sheffield presented the Public Safety Partner Award to the Detroit Athletic Club Foundation in recognition of its steadfast commitment to Detroit’s public safety community.

​

The 2025 Above & Beyond Awards Ceremony was generously supported by Penske Corporation as the Title Sponsor, with the Detroit Lions and PVS Chemicals serving as Commanding Sponsors, alongside many additional partners whose support helps make the event possible.

​

The Above & Beyond Awards Ceremony continues to shine a light on the remarkable individuals who protect Detroit every day—and the families, partners, and community members who stand beside them.

 

Sponsorship opportunities and additional event information are available below.