In song, surrounded by family with flowers, Baltimore came to say thanks for your service.
On Tuesday night, the Baltimore Police Department honored women and men like Officer Tom Gross at a medal ceremony.
"It didn’t surprise me when we got the call that he was receiving the lifesaving award," said Tom Gross Sr. "It didn't surprise us at all."
Gross's parents say their son has always been committed to helping others. On this night he was honored for saving a shooting victim at the brink of death. His mother remembers he even called them to ask for prayers for a complete stranger.
"I'm so proud of him," said Nicole Gross. "He is one of the most humble, kind-hearted people I've ever met. He's definitely my hero."
Donald Voss is also a hero. In 1972, when he was a sergeant on the force, he ran to help his officers who were under attack. He was kicked and beaten unconscious.
His injuries led to his retirement in 1978. Now his dedication lives on as he was honored with the Citation of Valor.
"It feels good," Voss said. "It always stays with you. Once you're a police officer, you're always police."
Major Richard Gibson also got a lifesaving award for his dedication. In November of last year, he was patrolling a neighborhood in the middle of a protest.
Neighbors told him there was a baby girl who wasn't breathing inside a restaurant. He performed CPR trying desperately to save her, but she later died at the hospital.
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Major Gibson's efforts didn't go unnoticed.
"We understand and recognize the hard work and due diligence that they're going out every day putting their lives on the line to make Baltimore a better place not only to live but enjoy," said Major Kevin Jones.
Officer Gross is committed to doing that.
"Every day that I'm on patrol, I know I have the opportunity to help people that I may never know their names, but I'll be able to serve my country in this kind of manner," Gross said.
