Shining a spotlight on those who go above and beyond, the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department honored the extraordinary measures firefighters, paramedics, lifeguards and even civilians went through, to save the lives of others.

The employees youll meet today stand out among their peers, said San Diego Fire Chief Javier Mainar. Some for actions they took on a particular day, some for actions they take day in and day out.

The 2015 Service Awards Honoree Luncheon on October 23rd at the Sheraton Harbor Island, was hosted by the San Diego Fire Rescue Foundation and MCd by NBC 7 Anchor Catherine Garcia.

There are also civilians who went above and beyond in terms of saving lives and providing service, said Assistant Fire Chief Brian Fennessey.

Honorees included Firefighter Alex Wallbrett, who received the Medal of Valor for running toward a knife-wielding man attacking another firefighter and former San Diego City Council Member Jim Madaffer and his wife Robin who received Lifesaving Citations for coming to the aid of a man found lying on a Tierrasanta sidewalk. In all, 26 honors were handed out.