The City Of Norcross Honors First Responders For Lifesaving Heroics!

The City of Norcross proudly congratulates Communications Officer Carin Elmore and Police Officer Gabriel Veras, who were awarded the Scottish Rite, Valley of Atlanta Arthur M. Kaplan First Responder Award on September 4 for their heroic lifesaving efforts earlier this year.

Both Elmore and Veras officers bring a wealth of experience and dedication to public safety. Elmore, who grew up in a family of law enforcement professionals, has spent years ensuring residents receive fast and effective emergency response. Veras, raised in Philadelphia and seasoned through service in multiple police departments, has built a career on helping those in crisis with empathy and skill.

Their commitment was on full display on April 7. Just after noon, Elmore received multiple RapidSOS calls from the Rails Way area. Acting quickly, she created a 911 call for service in the dispatch system, sending officers to the area before receiving any information from County 911. Officer Veras arrived to find a 3-year-old child unconscious in the front yard. Without hesitation, he began CPR, performing chest compressions and rescue breaths. Thanks to his swift actions, the child regained a pulse, began breathing independently and was safely transported to the hospital in stable condition.

The City of Norcross is honored to celebrate Elmore and Veras, whose quick thinking, courage and seamless teamwork exemplify the very best of our first responders. Their dedication gives our community hope, reassurance and a powerful example of service in action.