2023 Medal of Honor Recipients
In recognition for extraordinary acts of valor and heroism, the Idaho Law Enforcement, Firefighting and EMS Medal of Honor is awarded to law enforcement officers, firefighters and EMTs who have been distinguished by exceptionally meritorious conduct, assuring that the sacrifices of these professionals are recognized and their bravery honored by the state whose citizens they protect.
In 2023, the Idaho Medal of Honor Commission met and selected five law enforcement officers to receive the Medal of Honor. The 2023 recipients are:
Corporal Cole Kuta
Heyburn City Police Department
On July 16, 2022, Corporal Cole Kuta with the Heyburn City Police Department was on his way home after completing a 12-hour work shift, when he heard dispatch broadcast that a suspect had committed arson and forcibly carjacked a good Samaritan who stopped to help extinguish the fire. Read more >>>
Officer Demetrius Amos
Pocatello City Police Department
On May 5, 2022, Officer Demetrius Amos and Officer Makenzie Handel with the Pocatello City Police Department responded to a call of disturbance that included a male pointing a firearm at a juvenile and an adult female. At approximately 1:30 a.m., Officer Handel and Officer Amos, along with two trainees arrived on the scene. Read more >>>
Officer Makenzie Handel
Pocatello City Police Department
On May 5, 2022, Officer Makenzie Handel and Officer Demetrius Amos with the Pocatello City Police Department responded to a call of disturbance that included a male pointing a firearm at a juvenile and an adult female. At approximately 1:30 a.m., Officer Handel and Officer Amos, along with two trainees arrived on the scene. Read more >>>
Detective Joel Weinheimer
Pocatello City Police Department
On July 5, 2022, Detective Joel Weinheimer joined Officer Jordan Johnson responding to a call of a vehicle that was overturned and submerged in a canal. Both officers entered the canal where civilians on scene indicated someone was trapped inside the vehicle. Read more >>>
Officer Jordan Johnson
Pocatello City Police Department
On July 5, 2022, Officer Jordan Johnson joined Officer Joel Wienheimer respond to a call of a vehicle that was overturned and submerged in a canal. Both officers entered the canal where civilians on scene indicated someone was trapped inside the vehicle. Read more >>>