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Virginia Sheriffs' Institute
Supporting Virginia’s Sheriffs & Deputies

The Washington County Virginia Sheriff’s Office has presented two life-saving awards to two individuals for their heroic acts in saving the lives of others in two separate house fires. 

On December 27, 2011, a fire completely engulfed a residence on Faris Drive.  The heroic efforts of Ms. Joy Kirkland saved the lives of three young foster children who were in the residence. 

In the early morning hours of January 15, 2012, a fire consumed a residence on Brumley Gap Road in Washington County, VA.  A passerby, Mr. Hunter Holmes, observed flames coming through the roof of the structure.  He ran to the residence and was able to awaken the parents and two young children, allowing them to escape the fire. 

“I am privileged to be able to recognize these two individuals for putting themselves in harm’s way to save the lives of others,” stated Sheriff Newman.  “Their selfless acts of bravery did not go unnoticed.”