The American Police Hall of Fame has awarded retired Key West Police Department Sgt. Adam Bittinger its Police Legion of the Purple Heart Medal — in recognition of the grievous injuries sustained while in the performance of duties as a law enforcement officer — when Bittinger was shot in the line of duty on June 14, 1998. Retired Officer Frank Lalama, left, who was with Bittinger the day of the shooting, was on hand while Police Chief Donie Lee presented the award. Bittinger, who now works for the department as its accreditation manager, says Lalama saved his life that day when he fired on the gunman. Lalama received the Medal of Honor for his role in the incident.
