Citizens of Arlington, Oso and Darrington to Get Medal of Valor

Washington lawmakers have moved one step closer to awarding one of the state's highest honors to the people of Arlington, Oso and Darrington for their heroism following last March's deadly mudslide.

The Daily Herald Reports the Senate voted unanimously on Friday to allow the state Medal of Valor to be given to a group of people. Under existing law, only individuals are eligible for this civilian honor.

Senate Bill 5035 now goes to the House where quick passage is expected.

Sen. Kirk Pearson of Monroe spoke with emotion on the Senate floor about the bill he sponsored. He talked about the residents who rushed in to save lives in the moments after the mudslide and how people didn't stop searching for victims until the bodies of all 43 were found.

Pearson says he couldn't name a hero because they all are heroes.