CHICAGO (CBS) — Several Chicago heroes were recognized Wednesday for risking their lives to protect others.
Current and fallen officers were honored during the 63rd annual Chicago Police Recognition Ceremony.
From the Chicago Police Department’s honor guard and bagpipes to the national anthem, hundreds of Chicago police officers gathered to break bread and recognize their colleagues.
“We are here to celebrate our officers and their hard work,” said CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling.
A time for officers to prove their own honor.
Officers gathered at the Hyatt Regency Hotel for the 63rd annual Chicago Police Recognition Ceremony.
Thirteen officers received the Superintendent’s Award of Valor, a prestigious award given to those who have demonstrated exceptional courage regardless of personal safety.
The families of fallen officers Andres Vasquez-Lasso and Areanah Preston accepted the awards on their behalf.
Preston was shot and killed during an attempted robbery last year.
“I’m always honored that they honor her. I know they will never forget her,” said Dionne Mhoon, Preston’s mother. “I just think she deserves it. I think she’s great. I still talk about her in the present. A wonderful person. Twenty-four years old, law student. She beat me.”
There were many tears as the Vasquez-Lasso and Preston families walked onto the stage.
Preston’s mother, Dionne Mhoon, said they share a special bond.
“We definitely became a family immediately, just like the Huesca family,” Mhoon said.
Officer Luis Huesca was shot and killed while he was coming home from his shift.
Dionne Mhoon said she is grateful to have received the Blue Star Award and the Superintendent’s Award of Valor on behalf of her daughter. Still, she wishes Areanah Preston were on stage instead.
“I wish I wasn’t there. It would be an award for something else, but I embrace it. I embrace it,” Mhoon said.
Both Vasquez-Lasso and Preston received the Police Medal of Honor, the department’s highest award.
Chief Snelling said the family of CPD Officer Luis Huesca will be honored next year.
