HARRISBURG, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro this week presented the 2025 Keystone First Responder Award to the families of three Pennsylvanians who lost their lives in the line of duty, recognizing their courage and sacrifice in service to their communities.
The ceremony, held at the Governor’s Residence, marked the second annual presentation of the award, created under Act 11 of 2024, a bipartisan law signed by Shapiro. The program honors first responders who die or suffer career-ending injuries while protecting the public.
The 2025 honorees were Sergeant Jaime Roman of the Philadelphia Police Department, Patrolman Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department, and Assistant Fire Chief Edward “Chip” Chidester of the Harford Volunteer Fire Company.
Roman, a six-year veteran, was shot in Kensington in 2024 and succumbed after more than 80 days in critical care. Duarte was killed during a hospital hostage incident in York County in February 2025. Chidester, a 40-year volunteer, died in April from injuries sustained fighting a brush fire in Susquehanna County.
“Pennsylvanians who put on the uniform and run towards danger to keep our communities safe represent the very best of our Commonwealth,” Shapiro said. “We owe these heroes and their families a debt of gratitude that can never truly be repaid – but today we honor their sacrifice, remember their courage, and reaffirm our commitment to always stand with Pennsylvania’s first responders”.
State and first responder leaders praised the honorees, with Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Randy Padfield noting their “tremendous sacrifice” and Fraternal Order of Police President Joe Regan emphasizing the profound duty first responders carry every day.
The Keystone First Responder Award was first awarded in 2024, honoring 12 Pennsylvanians. Nominations are reviewed by a 10-member committee representing law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, corrections, and coroners’ associations. Shapiro selects recipients based on the committee’s recommendations.
The award will continue to be presented annually, preserving the legacy of those who gave their lives or careers in service to the Commonwealth.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.