Six San Diegans whose extraordinary actions helped others are being honored in a “Salute to Heros” ceremony today.
The San Diego Rotary Club in conjunction with District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis’ office, Sheriff William Gore’s office and Chief of Police William Landsdowne are honoring ordinary citizens who perform extraordinary acts at the 20th-annual luncheon.
Three of the honorees include Steven Kane, Carlos Partida and Mario Contreras -- the construction workers who stopped a gunman in a shooting at Kelly Elementary School in Carlsbad.
Also being honored at the luncheon is Sharrel Blankenbaker, who was shot and killed while preventing the kidnapping of her granddaughter; Daryl Hollins, an SDG&E employee who called 9-1-1 after witnessing a break-in; and Rachel Turner who assisted in convicting the rapist of a 5-year-old girl.
According to Bruce Hunt, executive director of the San Diego Rotary Club, the Hero’s Luncheon is meant to honor each individual and send a message to the community.
“(The purpose) is to promote these people to the public so that we inspire the rest of our community, if they were in the same position, to perform similarly,” Hunt said.
Dumanis, Gore and Landsdowne will introduce each of the individuals recognized at the luncheon and after there will be a question and answer period with the honorees. Approximately 230 people are expected to attend, including friends and family members of the six people being recognized.
