By Lindsey Doi

SUTHERLIN, Ore. -- Responding to dangerous situations is all part of a Police Officer's job.  But when they go beyond the call of duty, that's when the American Police Hall of Fame steps in.

The Silver Star is the Hall of Fame's highest award, and it's given to living officers for an act of bravery.  Thursday night, it will be bestowed upon two local officers for their actions on March 10th, 2008.

It was a Monday morning they'll never forget.  Oregon State Trooper Aaron Baimbridge was just arrived on shift, while Sutherlin Police Officer Troy Mills was ready to clock out, when they heard the call for help.  The two officers were the first on scene of what would later be described as the most horrific homicide many have ever witnessed.  Without backup, and without knowing what was inside the burning home, both men rushed through heavy smoke to pull a victim to safety.

"It goes very quickly, and you just have to make decisions really fast and decide what you're gonna do and go with them," Trooper Baimbridge explained.  "We heard somebody in the kitchen, so we went toward the kitchen and we could hardly see ourselves and we didn't know if the suspect was still in the house, which was the scariest part of the whole thing," said Officer Mills.

Beloved school counselor, Lindi Riley died in the fire, but her husband, Craig Riley was saved by the officer's actions.

Now, both officers will receive the Silver Star for bravery.  Though both men scoff at the idea that they were being truly courageous that awful morning.  Still, the officers say they're grateful for the honor.

Each year, the American Police Hall of Fame selects one recipient of the Silver Star as the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.  Trooper Baimbridge and Officer Mills will be in the running for that honor as they accept their medals for bravery.