June is the Month of Valor on 97.3 The SKY, the 10th Anniversary year of our Valor salutes. Every weekday we recognize the bravery of local law enforcement and first responders. Shining a light on these heroes, who are first on-the-scene when the unthinkable happens. We honor their life saving efforts that go above and beyond the call of duty, to keep us all safe.
And special thanks to: The World Equestrian Center, The Allen Law Firm, Crime Stoppers of North Central Florida, and BJ Trophies and Awards
Tuesday June 16 honoree: Sgt. John Dyle with Gilchrist County Sheriff's Office
Sgt. John DyleGilchrist County Sheriff's Office
Why is Sgt. Dyle being honored…
In the fading light of a cold winter evening this past January, the Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office received a troubling emergency call: four people were stranded in a kayak on the Santa Fe River and in need of help.
As darkness closed in and boat support remained more than an hour away, Sgt. Dyle knew there was no time to wait. Acting immediately, he secured another kayak, launched into the cold river, and navigated the challenging waters toward the stranded group.
Battling the elements and racing against nightfall, Dyle reached the victims and safely guided all four back to shore. His quick judgment and determination, turned a potentially tragic situation into a successful rescue.
For his selfless courage and professionalism, the Gilchrist County Sheriff’s Office and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Sgt. John Dyle, as a SKY Valor honoree.
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Monday June 15 honoree: Trooper Kyle Durr with Florida Highway Patrol Troop B
Trooper Kyle DurrFlorida Highway Patrol
Durr brings a total of 11 years of law enforcement experience, the last 7 with FHP. He is currently assigned in Suwannee County within the Lake City District.
Hear his story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show Podcast
Why is Trooper Durr being honored…
Last June, violence erupted at an Arby’s in Lake City when an attempted robbery left multiple victims shot. As the call came in, Trooper Durr immediately raced toward the scene.
Before he arrived, word came that the suspects had fled north on Interstate 75, and were leading Columbia County deputies on a high-speed pursuit. Recognizing the danger to everyone on the roadway, Trooper Durr changed course and moved to intercept.
He soon located the suspect vehicle on I-10. Traveling at extreme speeds, the suspects were pulling away from pursuing deputies. Trooper Durr accelerated into position, took the lead of the pursuit, and began searching for the safest opportunity to end the threat.
With remarkable composure and tactical precision, he identified the right moment and executed a Precision Immobilization Technique, the PIT maneuver, bringing the fleeing vehicle under control and ending the chase.
Within moments, three violent suspects were taken into custody. The suspects ultimately faced charges including Attempted Homicide and numerous additional felonies.
For his courage under pressure, and expert pursuit skills during a dangerous encounter, the Florida Highway Patrol and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute the professionalism of Trooper Kyle Durr, as a SKY Valor honoree.
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Friday June 12 honorees: Master Deputy Zachary “Zach” Jones and Sgt. James Hall with the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy “Zach” Jones and Sgt. James HallBradford County Sheriff's Office
Deputy Jones is a six-year law officer, as a Detective, SWAT member, and Patrol. Sgt. Hall has 10 years experience in law enforcement, including as a Detective, SWAT member, and Patrol.
Hear their story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show Podcast
Why are Hall and Jones being honored…
On the afternoon of February 8th, during the height of this winter’s dry season, a brush fire erupted and began racing toward a home, threatening everything in its path. Sergeant Hall and Deputy Jones responded to the urgent call, arriving to find flames spreading rapidly across the property.
With the fire closing in on the residence, the deputies took immediate action. Spotting an above-ground pool near the home, Jones obtained the homeowner's permission and sliced open the side of the pool with a knife. Thousands of gallons of water surged across the yard, creating a temporary barrier between the flames and the house.But the fire kept advancing.
Using a plastic bin, Jones scooped water onto the flames while Hall battled the blaze from the backyard, soaking a towel and repeatedly beating back the fire. Together, they fought desperately to stop the flames as they crept toward the front porch.
Then the situation grew even more dangerous.
Driven by wind, the fire surged toward nearby woods, threatening neighboring properties. Hall and Jones continued relaying critical updates to incoming firefighters and deputies, helping ensure residents in harm's way could be warned.
When Bradford County Fire Rescue and Florida Forestry crews arrived, the battle shifted to the woodline. As firefighters and deputies pushed into the smoke, the wind suddenly changed direction. Thick smoke engulfed Jones and a firefighter, forcing them to retreat to safety.
After an intense struggle, crews finally stopped the fire at the edge of the woods. The home and surrounding structures were saved, though much of the yard and two pools were destroyed.
In the aftermath, Jones investigated the cause. The homeowner explained he had been burning cardboard in the backyard when the fire suddenly escaped his control—setting off a chain of events that nearly ended in disaster.
For their tenacity, fast action, and professionalism, the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Sgt. James Hall and Master Deputy “Zach” Jones, as SKY Valor honorees.
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Thursday June 11 honorees: Deputy Sheriff Jacob McWilliams and Deputy Sheriff Edward Beatty with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Jacob McWilliams and Deputy Edward BeattyAlachua County Sheriff's Office
Hear their story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show Podcast
Why are McWilliams and Beatty being honored…
In the early morning hours on December 20th, a desperate emergency call was received. A worried family member reported that her niece was being brutally assaulted by her boyfriend inside an apartment.
Deputies McWilliams and Beatty rushed to the scene. When they rang the doorbell, they thought they heard a faint cry for help from inside—but couldn't be certain.
Then, suddenly, the apartment door burst open. The victim stumbled toward the deputies, covered in blood. Her clothes were torn and stretched. She collapsed to the ground at their feet.
The deputies immediately moved into action. Inside the apartment, they confronted the suspect at gunpoint and took him into custody. While Beatty secured the suspect, whose clothing was soaked in blood,
McWilliams rushed to the victim's aid. What they soon learned was horrifying.
The victim had suffered a collapsed lung, severe head trauma requiring multiple staples, extensive bruising, and signs of repeated strangulation. Investigators discovered the suspect had slammed her head into a toilet, stomped on her chest and back, repeatedly punched her, and choked her into unconsciousness multiple times. Throughout the attack, he told her he was going to kill her and that she would never leave the apartment alive.
The assault only stopped when the deputies arrived.According to the victim, the suspect heard the doorbell and said, "Oh look, they came to save you. Now I'm going to prison." That brief distraction gave her the chance to escape.
The deputies' work didn't end with the arrest. McWilliams built a strong rapport with the victim, conducted extensive follow-up interviews, and helped establish the evidence needed to support charges including attempted murder, false imprisonment, and denial of 911 access. Beatty continued the investigation as well, even spending off-duty time gathering evidence that disproved the suspect's claims about his injuries.
When she was released from the hospital, the victim thanked both deputies. She told them she believed that if they had arrived even moments later, she would not have survived. A vicious attack was stopped, and a dangerous offender was brought to justice.
For their swift action, life-saving professionalism, and compassion, the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Deputy Jacob McWilliams and Deputy Edward Beatty, as SKY Valor honorees.
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Wednesday June 10 honorees: Sergeant Rob Kennedy, Officer Jessie Herringshaw and Officer Frederid Tirado with the Gainesville Police Department
Sergeant Rob Kennedy, Officer Jessie Herringshaw, Officer Fredid TiradoGainesville Police Department
Why are Kennedy, Herringshaw and Tirado being honored…
Hear their story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show Podcast
It began with a 911 call to GPD’s Combined Communications Center: a man carrying what appeared to be a shotgun was walking down an East Gainesville sidewalk. Moments later, a gunshot echoed through the area. The witness observed the suspect walking away from the Imeca Lumber store, heading eastbound while describing a suspicious vehicle parked nearby.
Sergeant Kennedy and Officer Herringshaw were already in the area, and rushed to intercept. They quickly located the suspect as he attempted to flee. But what began as a traffic stop instantly became a fight for survival.
The suspect exploded from the vehicle, armed with a semi-automatic pistol, advancing on Herringshaw while firing. Herringshaw returned fire as Kennedy moved into position, both officers placing themselves directly in the path of deadly gunfire to stop an active killer.
Then came Officer Tirado. Arriving amid the chaos, he immediately recognized the unfolding ambush. With rounds flying and fellow officers under attack, Tirado calmly shouldered his patrol rifle and engaged the advancing gunman, bringing the deadly assault to an end.
During the ferocious 40-second gun battle, the suspect fired an astonishing 110 rounds. Both Kennedy and Herringshaw were shot, yet neither stopped fighting. They were later released after medical treatment.
Only after taking down the assailant would investigators discover a horrifying truth: before confronting police, the suspect had already murdered an employee inside Imeca Lumber.Because these officers stood their ground, a killer's rampage ended there. Their courage under fire, unwavering resolve, and willingness to risk their own lives to save others prevented further tragedy, and represent the very best of law enforcement service.
For their extraordinary bravery and life saving tactical response, the Gainesville Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Sergeant Rob Kennedy, Officer Jessie Herringshaw and Officer Frederid Tirado, as SKY Valor honorees.
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Tuesday June 9 honoree: Officer Stephen Peters with the University of Florida Police Department
Officer Stephen PetersUniversity of Florida Police Department
Peters is a Gainesville High and University of Florida graduate, proud to now serve the same community in which he was raised.
Hear his story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show Podcast
Why is Officer Peters being honored…
Last September around 1:45 a.m., Peters was part of the apprehension of a dangerous fleeing criminal. While monitoring Gainesville Police radio traffic, a wanted suspect was involved in a rapidly escalating violent event. Officer Peters proactively positioned himself near the Murphree parking area, to help prevent the suspect from entering the University of Florida campus.
The suspect was then spotted, fleeing across University Avenue, and Peters immediately joined the foot pursuit. During the chase, Peters suffered a serious injury. But, he continued the pursuit and assisted in the successful apprehension of the suspect. Placing the safety of the campus community and fellow officers above his own well-being.
Officer Peters’ actions demonstrated courage, perseverance, and a strong commitment to duty during a rapidly evolving and dangerous situation. His actions exceeded the normal expectations of duty and reflect favorably upon both himself and the University of Florida Police Department.
For his courage and strong commitment to duty during a dangerous encounter, the University of Florida Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute the perseverance of Officer Stephen Peters, as a SKY Valor honoree.
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Monday June 8 honorees: Driver Operator Steve Toth and Firefighter Jake Levine with Alachua County Fire Rescue
Driver Operator Steve Toth and Firefighter Jake LevineAlachua County Fire-Rescue
Hear their story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show Podcast
Steve Toth is a 26-year veteran of ACFR, assigned to Engine 21, A-Shift. Jake Levine has served with ACFR for 7-years, also now assigned to Engine 21.
Why are Toth and Levine being honored…
Last October, while returning from another emergency call, the crew of Alachua County Fire Rescue Engine 21 spotted a chilling scene unfolding in the driving rain. A man stood atop an I-75 overpass, dangerously close to the edge, appearing ready to leap into the stream of traffic racing below.
Without hesitation, the crew pulled over and rushed toward the bridge. As they closed the distance, they saw the man standing on the outside of the protective barrier, his life hanging in the balance. A concerned bystander was desperately trying to talk him down, but the situation was rapidly deteriorating.
Recognizing that seconds mattered, Toth and Levine quickly coordinated a rescue plan. Moving carefully into position, they waited for the perfect moment. Then, in one decisive act, they lunged forward, seized the man, and pulled him back over the barrier to safety.
Thanks to their quick thinking and flawless teamwork, a life was saved that day. The man was transported for evaluation and given the opportunity to receive the help he desperately needed. By placing themselves in harm's way without a second thought, Toth and Levine demonstrated the very best of the fire service—selfless bravery in the face of a life-or-death crisis.
For their courage, Alachua County Fire Rescue and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Driver-Operator Steve Toth and Firefighter Jake Levine, as SKY Valor honorees.
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Friday June 5 honorees: Deputy Burt Miller, Sergeant LeRoy Prine and Deputy David Rix with the Levy County Sheriff’s Office
Deputy Burt Miller, Sergeant LeRoy Prine, Deputy David RixLevy County Sheriff's Office
Hear their story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show podcast
Why are Miller, Prine and Rix being honored…
On April 9th, a stunning encounter in Cedar Key. They responded to a call in search of a suspect wanted for a violent offense. Upon arrival, they spotted the man outside the home, but as Miller, Prine and Rix approached, the subject quickly retreated inside, and barricaded himself within the residence.
Knowing every second mattered, the deputies forced entry. What they discovered was a scene of chaos and desperation. The suspect had used a battery-powered circular saw in an apparent suicide attempt, inflicting a devastating wound to his arm. Blood covered the area as the man continued to lose blood at an alarming rate.
Despite his critical condition, the suspect violently resisted every effort to take him into custody or render medical aid. Miller, Prine and Rix repeatedly deployed their Tasers in an attempt to gain control, but the suspect continued fighting, and repeatedly declared that he wanted to die.
Faced with a rapidly deteriorating situation, the deputies refused to give up. After a prolonged and dangerous struggle, they physically removed the suspect from the residence and secured him outside. During the confrontation, each deputy suffered significant exposure to the suspect's blood while fighting to save his life.
Even in custody, the suspect continued resisting treatment. Undeterred, Prine, Miller and Rix persisted, calmly working to convince him to accept help. Their determination finally broke through, allowing them to control the bleeding, and enabling EMS personnel to provide life-saving care.
Their actions that day were far more than an arrest. By forcing entry, taking control of a violent and volatile situation, and refusing to abandon a man determined to end his own life, these deputies became the difference between life and death…as the suspect would almost certainly have bled to death inside that home.
For their courage, persistence, and life-saving dedication, the Levy County Sheriff’s Office and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Sergeant LeRoy Prine, Deputy Burt Miller and Deputy David Rix, as SKY Valor honorees.
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Thursday June 4 honoree: Detective Micah Smith with the Ocala Police Department
OPD Det. Micah SmithOcala Police Department
Micah Smith joined OPD in 2019. Quickly distinguishing himself through his exceptional work ethic, productivity, and commitment to excellence, Smith rose quickly through the Department. He was promoted to Detective, to the Investigations Bureau, the Property Crimes Unit, then to the Intel Division.
Two years ago Smith was recommended as OPD’s Task Force Officer for the United States Marshals Service, where he currently serves.
Hear his story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show podcast
Why is Detective Smith being honored…
Working alongside Marshals, he has helped move more than 45 violent offender cases through the federal system, targeting criminals responsible for homicide, firearms offenses, robbery, and drug trafficking. Nearly every case resulted in successful prosecution, taking dangerous repeat offenders off the streets and securing lengthy prison sentences.
Through his work in the Intel Unit, Detective Smith launched and led major long-term investigations with local, state, and federal partners, focusing on some of the city's most dangerous criminals.
In May of last year, Smith tracked down Nathaniel Johnson, a fugitive sex offender who had evaded capture since 2018 by completely changing his appearance. That same month, Smith also located and arrested Edward Cruz, wanted out of New York since 2019 for attempted murder, after Cruz assumed a new identity and settled in Marion County. Last August, Detective Smith played a key role in capturing two suspects wanted in a Gainesville Easter Egg Hunt shooting. One was arrested at a family residence, while the second was lured to police headquarters through a carefully orchestrated plan and taken into custody.
For his dedication, professionalism, and results-driven approach, the Ocala Police Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute Detective Micah Smith as a SKY Valor honoree.
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Tuesday June 2 honoree: Firefighter and EMT Kyle Livingston with the High Springs Fire Department
Firefighter - EMT Kyle LivingstonHigh Springs Fire Department
Livingston joined the High Springs Fire Department in 2024. He brings over 15 years of experience in emergency services. Before that, he proudly served as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army.
Hear his story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show Podcast
Why is Livingston being honored:
Since joining the High Springs Fire Department, Firefighter and EMT Livingston has been instrumental in creating innovative aptitude tests for new hires. He has taken on various roles, including Community Risk Reduction Coordinator, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and Helmet Fitter. And he has taken the initiative to establish the city’s Narcan distribution program.
Livingston’s dedication to risk reduction and education, combined with his responsibilities as a Firefighter and EMT, plays a vital role in protecting the High Springs community, and saving lives.
For his professionalism and extraordinary initiative, the High Springs Fire Department and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute the dedication of Firefighter and EMT Kyle Livingston, as a SKY Valor honoree.
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Monday June 1 honorees: Trooper Kevin Davis and Trooper Joshua Harrison with the Florida Highway Patrol, working out of the Cross City District of Troop B.
Trooper Kevin Davis and Trooper Joshua HarrisonFlorida Highway Patrol
Davis has 21 years of law enforcement experience, the last 4 with FHP. Harrison has served FHP for 6 years.
Hear their story of Valor on the Bob Rose Show Podcast
Why are Troopers Davis and Harrison being honored:
Last October, Davis and Harrison responded to an urgent evening request from the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office regarding an active shooter at the crowded Old Town Tavern. While en route, they learned over the radio that deputies had engaged the suspect and that a Dixie County deputy had been shot.
Upon arrival, Trooper Davis deployed his ballistic shield, and alongside Trooper Harrison and responding deputies, advanced toward the suspect’s last known location. After locating the armed suspect, the troopers moved decisively to secure his firearm, eliminate the threat, and take him into custody.
As fellow officers rushed to aid the wounded deputy, Troopers Davis and Harrison immediately shifted their focus to preserving life. Despite the suspect having sustained multiple gunshot wounds, the troopers provided emergency medical care, without hesitation. Working calmly and effectively under extreme pressure, they applied a tourniquet, treated injuries to the suspect’s lower extremities, and stabilized him until EMS personnel arrived.
Their actions exemplify the highest standards of FHP professionalism. Faced with a rapidly evolving and dangerous situation, they not only helped end a deadly threat, but also demonstrated an unwavering dedication to preserving life, reflecting the core values of the Florida Highway Patrol.
For their courage and decisive action under pressure, the Florida Highway Patrol and 97.3 The SKY are proud to salute the lifesaving dedication of Trooper Joshua Harrison and Trooper Kevin Davis.
