The 2024 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals (Sammies) honor the exceptional work of federal employees who go above and beyond to serve the public and tackle some of the nation’s most critical challenges. Since 2001, the Sammies have celebrated excellence across the federal workforce, showcasing the dedication, innovation, and impact of public servants. While there are many deserving winners this year, here are just a few of the incredible honorees making a difference in fields ranging from environmental protection to national security.
Here are some of the 2024 Sammies Honorees working in, or on, projects relating to U.S. Homeland Security:
– Pete Guria, Steve Calanog, Tara Fitzgerald, and the 2023 Maui Wildfires Emergency Response Team – Environmental Protection Agency
This team led over 300 EPA personnel to remove hazardous materials from the Maui wildfire zones, respecting local cultural norms and setting a new standard for federal emergency response teams.
– Kaitlin Sahni, Kate Naseef, Nhan Nguyen, and the Chemical Prosecutions Team – Department of Justice
By prosecuting individuals supplying precursor chemicals to a Mexican drug cartel, this team disrupted methamphetamine and fentanyl production, setting a framework for future legal cases.
– Sammie Tafoya – U.S. Department of State
Tafoya developed a visa revocation policy for Haitians involved in criminal activities and human rights abuses, while also contributing to U.N. sanctions and resolutions aimed at promoting peace in the Caribbean.
– Thaddeus A. Ryba Jr. – Department of the Air Force
Ryba played a critical role in eliminating chemical weapons in Syria and Libya and contributed to the destruction of the U.S. chemical weapons stockpile, bolstering global security.
– Trevor McAleenan and Michael Lane – Internal Revenue Service
These investigators led a cutting-edge investigation resulting in the seizure of over $3 billion in bitcoin, marking one of the largest financial seizures in U.S. history.
– Matthew S. Borman – Department of Commerce
Borman spearheaded efforts to impose export controls on U.S. adversaries, preventing access to critical American technology that could be used for military purposes.
– Mike Schmidt and the CHIPS Program Team – Department of Commerce
This team implemented a multibillion-dollar initiative to boost the U.S. semiconductor industry, enhancing domestic production and strengthening national security.
Honoring the Spirit of Public Service
The Sammies, named after the late Samuel J. Heyman, celebrate federal employees who break barriers and deliver results that improve the nation. These honorees represent just a few of the outstanding individuals who exemplify the best of public service. Their dedication and innovation show how government can effectively serve the public and inspire the next generation of federal employees.
We congratulate all of this year’s Sammies honorees for their remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to making the United States better, safer, and stronger.
A full breakdown of this year’s winners can be found here.
