On the evening of June 24, Garden City Police Officer Paul Berg responded to a call of a man lying on the railroad tracks at the Merillon Avenue station. Upon his arrival, Officer Berg observed a 55-year-old male lying on the tracks with a train approaching. Fearing for the man's life, Officer Berg jumped over a barrier to reach the track. He then determined the man to be heavily intoxicated and totally unresponsive.

With the train almost upon them, Officer Berg attempted to lift the man off the tracks. The man suddenly awakened and started to resist Officer Berg's attempt to save him by hitting and pushing the officer. As the train approached, Officer Berg summoned all his strength to overcome the man's resistance, pull him off the tracks and shield him as the train passed by.

Witnesses at the scene stated that the train narrowly missed the two men and that Officer Berg's heroism - at great personal risk - saved the man's life. The officer slightly injured a shoulder but his pride and reputation remain healthier than ever.

Officer Berg, a 32-year veteran of the Garden City Police Department, has compiled an exemplary career and has received numerous departmental and citizen commendations for excellent police work.

Because of his efforts, Officer Berg earned a 2005 Town of Hempstead Police Service Award, presented to him at a special ceremony Sept. 20. Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray and the town board honored, along with Officer Berg, 10 Nassau County police officers, 12 county detectives, two village police officers, one village lieutenant and one village sergeant.

"From solving murders and extensive undercover work to patrolling our streets, our police honorees have distinguished themselves as local heroes," Murray said. "Police officers in our towns and villages make significant sacrifices every day to ensure our safety and maintain our peaceful neighborhoods. The town is proud to have the opportunity to recognize those who serve and protect our residents."

The officers were honored for putting their lives on the line pursuing criminals and maintaining order and facilitating rescues in crisis. In addition, the supervisor noted that many officers are involved in youth programs offering children the uniquely positive influence of law enforcement professionals. The supervisor commended each of the award recipients for their exemplary service and stated that residents live and raise their families in local communities because they feel safe in their homes and on the streets as a result of the officers' service.

"I would like to thank the men and women in police service in Hempstead Town. We respect your work in our communities, admire your capacity to deal with the complexities of modern society and are grateful for your dedication to our personal well-being. You make us proud every day of the year," she said.