LOS ANGELES (Sept. 23, 2026) — Heroes don't always wear uniforms. The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region is seeking nominations for individuals whose acts of courage, compassion and quick thinking helped save a life or made a lasting impact during a crisis.

Selected honorees will be recognized at the 22nd Annual Hometown Heroes Awards Luncheon aboard the historic Queen Mary on May 14, 2027.

Nominations are open to community members and off-duty emergency response professionals whose actions went beyond the normal scope of their duties.

Submit a nomination: 
redcross.org/NominateAHero

Or scan the QR code below:

Hero Eligibility

To be considered for a Hometown Hero Award, nominees must meet the following criteria:

• The heroic act must have occurred outside the normal course of the nominee's job duties if they are a medical or emergency response professional.
• The nominee must live, work or attend school in Los Angeles County, or the heroic act must have taken place in Los Angeles County.
• Preference is given to nominations that involve a single heroic incident rather than a large-scale disaster response, although exceptions may be considered.
• On-duty badge-carrying emergency response personnel are not eligible for consideration. However, off-duty badge-carrying personnel may be nominated for heroic actions taken while off duty.

Examples of Heroic Acts

The American Red Cross welcomes nominations of individuals whose actions made a lifesaving or extraordinary difference in the lives of others. Examples include:

• Performing CPR or first aid in an emergency.
• Rescuing someone from a burning vehicle or building.
• Taking courageous action to save a life during a crisis.
• Providing exceptional humanitarian support to veterans, military members and their families.
• Going above and beyond to assist people affected by everyday disasters, such as home fires.

If you're unsure whether an act qualifies, we encourage you to submit a nomination and share the story. Every act of courage has the power to inspire others.

Submit a nomination and share the story. Every act of courage has the power to inspire others.