Denver Police Foundation Honors Department Heroes

Annual 'Honoring Our Heroes' gala celebrates officers' courage and service

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:11pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or other law enforcement equipment, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The Denver Police Foundation's annual awards ceremony honors the bravery and service of the city's law enforcement heroes.Denver Today

The Denver Police Foundation held its annual Heroes Awards ceremony, honoring Denver Police Department officers for their actions and service to the community. The event featured a video presentation highlighting each officer's heroic acts, including de-escalating armed suspects, dismantling organized crime, and preventing a high-speed pursuit. Several officers received distinguished service awards, including the Distinguished Service Cross and Medal of Valor.

Why it matters

The Heroes Awards ceremony is an important annual event that recognizes the bravery and dedication of Denver's police force. It helps build community trust and appreciation for the officers who put their lives on the line to keep the city safe.

The details

The 'Honoring Our Heroes' gala, held at the Hilton Denver City Center, honored officers for their courage and performance in the line of duty. The event featured a video presentation highlighting each officer's actions, including the de-escalation of armed suspects, working to dismantle organized crime, and preventing what could have become a prolonged pursuit through downtown Denver. Several officers received distinguished service awards, including the Distinguished Service Cross and Medal of Valor.

  • The Denver Police Foundation held the annual Heroes Awards on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.

The players

Al Gardener

Director of Public Safety for the City of Denver.

Mike Johnston

Mayor of Denver.

Ron Thomas

Chief of the Denver Police Department.

Megan Pletcher

Executive Director of the Denver Police Foundation.

Anschutz Corp.

A sponsor of the Honoring Our Heroes event.

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What they’re saying

“We gather to honor heroes who step into our streets every day, with commitment to serve and protect. Your bravery is not abstract. It is safer in our streets and neighborhoods because of you. In the lives protected, and in the relationships you create, each day on this job.”

— Al Gardener, Director of Public Safety

“Tonight, you will hear incredible stories of courage and heroism from folks who in those moments when they got called, were able to diffuse, save people's lives, and protect.”

— Mike Johnston, Mayor of Denver

“For several years, we have worked alongside each other to provide safer and better situations for our team. I'm so proud of the service you do.”

— Ron Thomas, Chief of the Denver Police Department

What’s next

The Denver Police Foundation plans to continue hosting the annual Heroes Awards ceremony to honor the bravery and service of the city's police officers.

The takeaway

The Honoring Our Heroes event showcases the vital role that Denver's police force plays in keeping the community safe, and highlights the courage and dedication of the officers who put their lives on the line every day.