Harrisburg, PA – Today, Governor Josh Shapiro presented the 2025 Keystone First Responder Award to the surviving families of three Pennsylvania heroes who lost their lives in the line of duty. The ceremony, held at the Governor’s Residence, marked the second annual presentation of the award created by bipartisan legislation signed by Governor Shapiro last year.
The Keystone First Responder Award recognizes first responders who have suffered fatal or career-ending injuries while serving their communities, honoring their bravery, sacrifice, and commitment to public safety.
“Pennsylvanians who put on the uniform and run towards danger to keep our communities safe represent the very best of our Commonwealth.”
– Governor Josh Shapiro
“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, law enforcement officers, and their loved ones," Governor Shapiro said. "These heroes displayed incredible bravery and professionalism, dedicating themselves to keeping others safe – and their courage, selflessness, and commitment to community will continue to inspire us for years to come."
The three awardees recognized this year were:
Sergeant Jaime Roman | Philadelphia Police Department
End of watch: Sept. 10, 2024
A six-year veteran of the force, Sergeant Roman was shot while on duty in Kensington and passed away after more than 80 days in critical condition.
Patrolman Andrew Duarte | West York Borough Police Department
End of watch: Feb. 22, 2025
Patrolman Duarte was killed during a hospital hostage incident in York County, giving his final moments to protecting his colleagues.
Asistant Fire Chief Edward 'Chip' Chidester | Hartford Volunteer Fire Company
End of watch: April 27, 2025
A 40-year member of the Harford Volunteer Fire Company, Assistant Chief Chidester died from complications of injuries sustained while fighting a large brush fire in Susquehanna County.
“These men represent the very best of Pennsylvania’s first responder community. Their tremendous sacrifice in service of the public good throughout their careers is truly commendable,” said Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Director Randy Padfield. “Their desire to make our Commonwealth a better place should never go unnoticed, and their legacy will stand as a shining example for years to come.”
“Being a first responder isn’t just a job — it’s a commitment, a calling. For Sgt. Roman, Officer Duarte, and their families, it was the ultimate sacrifice,” said Joe Regan, president, Pennsylvania Fraternal Order of Police. “First responders are often the face someone sees on the worst day of their life. Whether a police officer, firefighter, or EMT, they bring calm to chaos, order to disorder, and hope to hopelessness. They don’t ask for recognition — they simply do what is needed, even as gunfire rings out, smoke billows, and chaos unfolds. To be a first responder is to live with a profound sense of duty, knowing that every shift could be your last, and still choosing to serve as part of something greater than yourself.”
"Assistant Chief Edward Chidester devoted his life to the fire service. For 40 years, he served with the Harford Volunteer Fire Company, following in the footsteps of his father,” said State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook. “Firefighting wasn’t just what he did — it was a major part of who he was. His unwavering commitment to his community will never be forgotten. His sacrifice reminds us of the courage it takes to answer the call, and his legacy will continue to inspire the people of Harford and beyond."
The Keystone First Responder Award was signed into law as Act 11 of 2024 by Governor Shapiro on May 8, 2024.
The inaugural ceremony in October 2024 honored 12 Pennsylvanians, and the program will continue to recognize first responders each year who gave their lives or careers in service to the Commonwealth.
Nominations for the 2025 awards were collected earlier this year by PEMA through an online form. Governor Shapiro selected the recipients for the 2025 awards upon recommendation from the awards committee, which carefully reviewed all nominations.
The 10-person award committee is made up of the PEMA Director, State Fire Commissioner, Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner, Department of Health Bureau of Emergency Medical Services Director, Department of General Services Secretary, Pennsylvania State Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association President, Pennsylvania National Emergency Number Association Director, Pennsylvania State Corrections Officers Association President, and Pennsylvania State Coroners Association Director.