2010 Tribute to Heroes Winners

From L-R: Deputy Randy Muhm, Charles Jeffers, Vaughn Robertson, David and Wendy Steiner,
Tyler Braaten, Dr. Jeffrey David, Cpl. Lucas Mutschelknaus and Off. Jeffrey Urkevich.

In the Line of Duty: Seward County Sheriff's Deputy Randy Muhm
In February, Seward County Sheriff's Deputy Randy Muhm was on his way home from Utica for a quick snack at 1:30 a.m. when he noticed a plume of smoke and an orange glow coming from a nearby house. He knew there were people inside so he ran to the door and began beating, kicking and screaming to wake up the occupants. Three young men were in the house asleep. A part of the roof was on fire and caved in after all residents got out uninjured. The house was completely destroyed and the residents lost everything, but were grateful to Muhm for saving their lives.

Good Samaritan: Charles Jeffers
On Friday, April 24, 2009, a bank was robbed by a gunman wearing a mask and wig. Charles Jeffers, who was sitting at the intersection in his truck, saw the man run from the bank and jump into a waiting vehicle. Charles thought something was suspicious, so he followed the vehicle as he called 911. He stayed on the phone with 911 as he followed the car, alerting police to the suspect's location and travel direction. Within minutes, Lincoln police were able to get in front of the car and make an arrest. Charles' actions helped take an armed bank robber off the streets within 8 minutes of committing a felony crime.

Mentor/Role Model: Vaughn Robertson
Both professionally and personally, Vaughn Robertson is a mentor, dedicated to the growth and support of youth in the Clinton Elementary neighborhood. In his role at the University of Nebraska Educational Talent Search program, Vaughn engages and motivates students to stay in school and attend college. Vaughn is also involved in beautifying the Clinton neighborhood, teaching young men about life as they plant shrubs and flowers, and has engaged other men to serve as mentors at Clinton. Everyday, Vaughn sets an example that has changed and influenced young lives in the Lincoln.

Children's Hero: Dr. Jeffrey David and David & Wendy Steiner
In October 2008, David and Wendy Steiner became foster parents of a newborn boy who was born premature at just 24 weeks and weighed less than two pounds. On December 1, Davonte suffered severe respiratory distress. The family took him to see Dr. Jeffrey David, who immediately sent him to the hospital. Davonte was life flighted to Children's Hospital. Davonte, with Wendy by his side, stayed in the hospital for two months. Dr. David kept in constant contact through emails and phone calls. After Davonte was discharged, the Steiners cordoned off their dining room and filled it with critical medical equipment for Davonte. Dr. David made house calls to protect Davonte's fragile immune system, and assisted the family as they began the adoption process. In January 2010, the adoption was finalized and Davonte became Derek Jeffrey (DJ) Steiner, in honor of Dr. David. For their commitment to the health and well-being of DJ, David and Wendy Steiner, and Dr. Jeffrey David are this year's Children's Heroes.

Young Hero: Tyler Braaten
Tyler Braaten helped save the life of his father who suffered from a nearly fatal fall in January. While putting away Christmas lights, Jon Braaten fell, hitting his head on a concrete floor and going unconscious. He awoke and thought everything was okay. Tyler, however, noticed that his father was bleeding and disoriented. He took control of the situation, keeping his younger brother calm and keeping his father awake until advanced help arrived. Jon spent five nights in a local hospital, recovering from a brain hemorrhage. The doctors credited Tyler's calm and quick action with saving his father's life.

Military Hero: Cpl. Lucas Mutschelknaus
Before the sun was up on the morning of November 15, 2009, Cpl. Lucas Mutschelknaus was on his way to drill at the Nebraska Army National Guard. At the intersection of NW 12th and Adams Streets, he came upon a violent, three-car accident. Lucas approached the most severely damaged vehicle and found Airman Rhonda McClellen, of the Air National Guard, pinned inside from the exploded airbags. McClellen could not breath as blood was coming out of her nose and mouth. Lucas cut out the airbag and cleared her airway. He continued to help until emergency crews arrived. McClellen was injured but received the help she needed thanks to Lucas.

Animal Rescue: K-9 Jake and Officer Jeffrey Urkevich
Shortly after midnight on August 9, 2009, Lincoln police officers were dispatched to an address in northeast Lincoln on the report of an intoxicated person, who was armed with a knife and threatening to kill himself. By the time officers arrived, the individual had fled. Officer Urkevich, and his K-9 partner Jake, a German Shepherd from the Czech Republic, were called to the scene. With the help of Jake's olfactory powers, they were able to track the suicidal person and take him into custody. Had it not been for Jake's keen nose, the suicidal person would not have been able to receive the care he desperately needed.