21 Honored In State Police Spring Awards Ceremony

BOSTON (CBS) --They are ordinary people, doing extraordinary things under extreme pressure.

On Monday, 21 heroes were honored at the State House. Some were state troopers while others were every day civilians.

"They are Good Samaritans, when confronted by someone who desperately needs help, met the moment head on and provided help," said Colonel Richard McKeon.

Each one of their stories of heroism is inspiring, like Julian Polynice and D'Zia Trowers-Bell, who pulled an unconscious child from the bottom of a pool in Hyde Park.

"I am happy I was able to help somebody, especially a young child," Polynice said.

Among the heroes was 10-year-old Asia Leedy-Andreozzi, who saved her father's life after he suffered a cardiac episode while driving down Route 1 in Peabody.

"He passed out in the car. I got out and flagged someone over so they could help him and they called 911," Asia said.

Her dad couldn't be prouder and more thankful to be alive.

"She is a special kid who knows what to do. She is very calm and collected under pressure," Joshua Leedy said.

These heroes come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

The one thing they have in common is putting others ahead of themselves.

• Paul Burton