By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – He helped record McLean County’s history for decades and now he’s making history.

WJBC’s Scott Laughlin presented the annual award at the Red Cress Saluting Our Heroes breakfast to Greg Koos, one year after Koos retired from his four-decades run transforming the McLean County Museum of History into a nationally-accredited museum.

PODCAST: Listen to the WJBC Spirit of McLean County Award presentation.

“It takes a community, it takes all of us,” Koos said. “I am humbled to be here with these heroes, and to accept this recognition, not for Greg Koos, but for the McLean County Museum of History that allowed me for so long to thrive, to share, to grow and to learn. That’s what our lives are about folks.”

During Koos’ tenure the museum’s capacity for developing new exhibits and delivering educational programs and events has nearly tripled, according to the museum’s website.

The Red Cross handed out seven awards at its annual breakfast.

Health and Safety Award, sponsored by OSF St. Joseph Medical Center:
Thanks to CPR/AED training and fast thinking, Maddie Biehl, a graduate student in ISU’s Athletic Training program, was instrumental in saving two lives on two separate occasions.

Ambassador Award, sponsored by Integrity Technology Solutions:
Rubie’s Rescue & Retreat has a passion for four-legged friends and through their efforts over the past 12 years more than 1,000 dogs have been rescued. Recently, the rescue organization has been a part of the hurricane relief efforts by helping to transport and rehome dogs abandoned during Hurricane Harvey.

Public Service Award, sponsored by Roger and Mary Hunt:
Macon County Sheriff’s Deputy Bart Hickey risked electrocution when he pulled a woman from her burning vehicle as it rested on top of an electrical box following a two-vehicle accident.

Paula R. Walsh Volunteer Award, sponsored by the Walsh Family:
With Ryan Heeren’s commitment and vision the West Bloomington Revitalization Project’s Tool Library has experienced significant growth. Ryan has spearheaded several special projects such as the Bench Blitz and the Bed Blitz to improve the quality of life in the community.

Youth Award, sponsored by State Farm:
Kenny Gray, 14, knew his young cousin was in serious trouble when he accidently swallowed a bottle cap, which lodged deep in his throat. Kenny quickly administered abdominal thrusts and expelled the bottle cap allowing his cousin to breath and swallow. Kenny’s actions potentially saved his young cousin’s life.

Armed Forces Award, sponsored by Country Financial:
Joshua Rodgers is a true American hero who served his country during Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. He had a passion to serve, completed three deployments to Afghanistan, and made the ultimate sacrifice during a raid in Afghanistan.

Good Samaritan Award, sponsored by CEFCU:
Liz Larson was enjoying a rafting trip with friends when she and a friend’s daughter went overboard. Liz performed the ultimate heroic act by saving the child’s life but was unable to save herself.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].
(information provided by Red Cross of the Heartland)