LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Louisville Metro Police Foundation hosted the police department's annual awards celebration Friday evening, recognizing the officers who went above and beyond in 2023.

The awards celebration recognized many members of LMPD and its staff, as well as community partners. Several of those honored were recognized for their efforts during the mass shooting at Old National Bank.

That included Officer Nickolas "Nick" Wilt, the rookie LMPD officer who first rushed towards gunfire inside the bank building and was shot in the head.

Wilt, who has continues to make progress, attended Friday's celebration, in person, with his family by his side. 

Ofc. Nickolas Wilt

Ofc. Nickolas Wilt attends Louisville Metro Police Department's Award Ceremony hosted by Louisville Metro Police Foundation.

Wilt received a Law Enforcement Purple Heart, Bluecoats Officer of the Year award, and Medal of Honor.

"Nick is receiving the Medal of Honor because of his bravery, and running towards gunfire, it was his fourth day ... He did not hesitate, and that's why he is receiving the Medal of Honor," said Rebecca Grignon Reker, executive director of the foundation. 

Officer Cory Galloway was Wilt's training officer the day of the Old National Bank shooting and was also shot by the gunman, before firing the shot that ultimately killed the gunman. 

Galloway also received a Purple Heart, as did two others: Traffic Control Officer Gertrude Schaftlein and officer Brandon Haley.

Gertrude Schaftlein

Traffic Control Officer Gertrude Schaftlein receives a Purple Heart during Louisville Metro Police Department's Award Ceremony hosted by Louisville Metro Police Foundation.

Schaftlein, sustained serious injuries, and had a partial leg amputation, when a semi struck her while helping students cross the street. She also was awarded Traffic Guard of the Year.

Haley was shot in the abdomen while conducting a traffic stop, and shots were fired from a nearby house in the city's Chickasaw neighborhood. He continues to recover and work to return to serving the community.

Haley's partner, Officer Colin Billotto, was awarded a Medal of Honor for his efforts to pull Haley to safety as shots continued to be fired.

The Foundation, which supports LMPD officers, announced it received a $1 million donation Friday night.

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