The Carnegie Hero Fund was established in 1904 “to recognize persons who perform acts of heroism in civilian life in the United States and Canada, and to provide financial assistance for those disabled and the dependents of those killed helping others.” Firefighters/police/soliders are in the business of saving lives and hence are not eligible.
Awardees get $5000, a medal, and a bronze grave insignia to embed in their tombstone/grave marker/urn. And maybe some ongoing financial assistance if they qualify.
You can read some of the stories of recent awardees. This is inspiring stuff.
I love hearing about good people doing good things. I’m glad this fund exists. It’s heartening to know that there are people out there who have the courage to get up and put their own lives at risk to help others.