addByline("Alexandra Howard","Celtics.com");
BOSTON - The Heroes Among Us program is one of the most revered initiatives in professional sports, applauding individuals for their heroic actions that may otherwise go unrecognized.
In the 16th year of the program, Celtics fans are still brought to their feet during the second timeout of the second quarter as they hear remarkable stories about individuals from their community. Together with the Massachusetts State Lottery, Comcast SportsNet and 98.5 The Sports Hub, as well as the support of Weldon Worldwide, the Heroes Among Us program has become an integral component to the Celtics in-game experience.
While a new hero is honored at each home game, the Celtics bring each class together at the end of the season for a culminating event. On Thursday afternoon, each hero from the 2013-14 season was honored at the Great Hall of the Massachusetts State House.
The 2013-14 class ranges from surgeon Dr. Bohdan Pomahac, who performed the first full-face transplant in the United States, to brave citizens like Rene and Andrew Bilodeau, a father and son who selflessly risked their lives to save a complete stranger. Also recognized were eleven first respondents from Brigham and Women’s hospital who helped to recuperate victims of the Boston Marathon bombings.
Massachusetts State Treasurer Steven Grossman, Celtics Team President Rich Gotham, Celtics legend Tommy Heinsohn, along with emcee Celtics Public Address Announcer Eddie Palladino and keynote speaker WCVB news anchor Bianca de la Garza, were all in attendance to recognize the honorees.
After the heroes were seated, Palladino welcomed and congratulated the honorees on their tremendous acts of heroism. Grossman followed by acknowledging the incredible acts the heroes have all selflessly performed.
“Each of you give everyone in our society the hope and opportunity to succeed,” he said.
Gotham echoed this sentiment as he spoke on the ideals of Celtic pride. Attendees listened intently as he referenced the organization’s commitment to teamwork and doing everything to the caliber of a champion.
“Listening to each of your stories during the second timeout of the second quarter is an inspiration to our players, coaches, employees and fans alike,” Gotham said. “Everyone here today is a champion in our community.”
Heinsohn elaborated on the idea of selflessness through his comical anecdote about the importance of humility.
"All of you being honored today have done something for a fellow human being,” the legend stated. “Each of you have stepped up to a challenge and at times risked the chance of injury.”
The CSN color commentator shared with attendees that he watches the hero recognition at half court each game and cannot help but to look into the eyes of the honoree.
"I always look at the face,” he continued. “I look into their eyes, and all you can see is the humility."
Finally, Garza spoke about the people of New England and how they have an overall upstanding character referencing several heroes in her address.
The emotional ceremony concluded as awards were individually distributed to each hero. Honorees were then invited to the stage for a group photo, followed by refreshments. The reception gave each hero a chance to mingle with their peers and to share their truly remarkable experiences.
To read the inspirational stories of the 2013-14 Heroes Among Us class or to nominate a hero in your life please visit the Heroes Among Us page on Celtics.com.