Trump Awards First Medals of Sacrifice to Deputies

President Donald Trump awarded the first-ever Medals of Sacrifice to the families of three Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office deputies—Cpl. Luis Paez Jr., Deputy Ralph 'Butch' Waller Jr., and Deputy Ignacio 'Dan' Diaz—who were killed in November 2024 after being struck by an SUV while assisting with a broken-down motorcycle. The White House ceremony, attended by law enforcement families and officials, marked the launch of this honor for first responders who die in the line of duty. The medals, designed by Tiffany & Co. at the behest of the Arnault family of LVMH, bear the word 'sacrifice' and the U.S. coat of arms. President Trump, who also attended the officers' memorial services, expressed the nation's gratitude and commitment to remembering their legacy. The tragic incident inspired both the creation of the medal and legislative efforts for future recognition of fallen first responders. The families of the fallen officers expressed appreciation for the recognition and hope for continued honor of such sacrifices.