Trump honors 3 PBSO deputies who were killed in service with the first sacrificial medals

Washington (CBS12) – The three MEPs of Palm Beach County, who died on duty last year, were honored on Monday by President Donald Trump, who presented their relatives the nation's first sacrificial medals.

The deputy sheriff Ignacio “Dan” Diaz and the deputy sheriff Ralph “Butch”, Waller, the deputy sheriff Ralph “Butch” Waller died in November 2024 after being met on the side of the Southern Boulevard in Loxahatchee.

“The three officers we recognize today were close friends who were really close friends and colleagues,” said President Trump. “Together they dedicated their lives to protect people in Palm Beach County and far beyond. They were loved by everyone and respected by everyone.”

Before the presentation, President Trump described the reputation of the MPs in the Sheriff office, whose roles in the President's autocoloncades and how honored he was to take part in their memorial service last year.

“This was a terrible tragedy,” he continued. “It shaken the entire Palm Beach community like very few events that I have ever seen. All Florida mourned for their loss. Today, our entire nation with these three incredible patriots, which took us far too early, far too early.”

The three MPs were on motorcycle patrol and led the traffic enforcement near the Arden Clubhaus when they were hit. They were working on having started one of the motorcycles when an SUV owed to the street. The vehicle hit the guardrail and crashed into where the MPs were located.

Two congress members in Florida, the representatives Brian Mast and Byron Donalds, were present for the event. During the new conference, Mast thanked President Trump for the creation of the medal to honor the victim of first aiders, law enforcement authorities and firefighters.

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“This has never taken place,” said Mast. “This recognition. It is a job that is always dangerous and often fatal, and there is a guilt that can never be repaid. But you are ready to recognize these debts. So, thank you, Mr. President, for the recognition of the debt.”

President Trump found that his government intended to work for a legislative template that would award the new medal to law enforcement officers and first aiders who gave their lives on duty.

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