Maryland Hometown Hero Nomination

First responders run towards a crisis, not away from one.

That’s how the U.S. First Responders Association defines them — and Trollinger Law LLC wants to hear about the ones who have made a difference in the lives of families throughout Southern Maryland.

The Waldorf personal injury law firm is seeking nominations for its first annual Hometown Heroes Awards. Nominations can be submitted online until Feb. 21, 2020 and are open to first responders in Waldorf, Charles County, and the rest of Southern Maryland.

“First responders are the unsung heroes of the community,” says Attorney Matt Trollinger. “When we’re hurt and can’t take care of ourselves, they’re there. When there’s a natural disaster, they’re there. And when we’re caught up in the chaos of an emergency, we forget to say thank you. They’re not in it for the acknowledgment. But they deserve it.”

Supporting first responders has long been a tradition at Trollinger Law LLC. Firm founder Matt Trollinger has dedicated funds and participated in programs for the LaPlata Police Department Safety Committee and Crime Watch; the LaPlata Police Department, Kent Avenue Cleanup and Block Party; Charles County Sheriff’s Office donation drive for abuse victims, Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, and Tunnels to Towers Foundation for fallen heroes.

“First responders dive headfirst into dangerous situations without hesitation,” says Trollinger. “Helping them make future plans if tragedy strikes is one way that attorneys can honor their selflessness.”

Law enforcement officers in Charles County responded to more than 235,600 phone calls in 2018, according to the county’s most recent Government Report. That same year, three officers received the Bronze Medals of Valor for bravery and three others received meritorious awards. Six others were given life-saving awards and 16 received Sheriff’s Awards for outstanding field service.

The Hometown Heroes Award is a way for the public to express their own gratitude, says Trollinger.

The online nomination form asks people to write an essay-style submission of at least 300 words explaining why their nominee should be selected as a Hometown Hero. Three winners will be selected to receive $1,000 each from Trollinger Law LLC.

Who’s Eligible?

The contest is open to first responders who work in Waldorf, Charles County, and the rest of Southern Maryland. This includes communities such as LaPlata, Indian Head, Port Tobacco, Bensville, Bryantown, Cobb Island, Hughesville, Pomfret, Potomac Heights, Rock Point, and St. Charles, among others.

Examples of first responders may include individuals or agencies, such as:

• Charles County Sheriff’s Office
• Maryland State Police
• LaPlata Town Police
• Charles County Fire & EMS
• Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department
• American Red Cross of Southern Maryland
• Paramedics
• Emergency medical technicians (EMTs)
• Emergency response teams
• Public safety providers
• Emergency hospital facilities and workers
• Military service members
• Security guards
• Lifeguards
• 911 dispatchers

“So many amazing stories of kindness and bravery go untold,” says Trollinger. “I’m looking forward to learning how first responders have changed the lives of the people around me.”

Winners will be announced on March 13, 2020 on Trollinger Law LLC’s Facebook page. To submit a nomination now, click here.