The first honorees, announced at a press conference Monday at Conseco Fieldhouse, are members of Indiana Concerns of Police Survivors (I.C.O.P.S.). Last summer, while on a bicycle ride around the state to raise funds and awareness for their group, two officers, Indiana State Trooper Gary Dudley and Lake County Sheriff's Department Chief Gary Martin, were killed when a truck hit their support vehicle, knocking it into the riders. This group, in memory of their fallen comrades, the cause it was riding for and its representation of safety for the citizens of Indiana, were deemed extremely worthy of being the first "Indiana Heroes."

I.C.O.P.S. will be honored at the Pacers' NBA regular-season home opener against the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets, Friday, Nov. 3. An Indiana hero or heroes will be honored at each remaining home game through the regular season.

"This is a program we've worked on throughout the summer," said Pacers CEO/President Donnie Walsh. "We wanted a way to recognize those people who make the State of Indiana a special place to live through efforts many of us do not see. We are very proud that I.C.O.P.S. is our first. The work they do to support the families who have lost loved ones while serving all of us is a perfect example of what we're looking for in Indiana Heroes."

I.C.O.P.S. operates as a peer support network for survivors of line-of-duty death according to federal criteria. The primary goal is to be there for all survivors on a day-to-day basis, assisting them with anything they need. More than 300 Indiana police officers have been killed in the line of duty.

"Indiana Heroes" will serve as one of the premier community outreach programs of the Indiana Pacers. Anyone can nominate someone who is making a difference. Nominations must include the nominee's name, street address, city and zip code, phone number and e-mail address (optional) along with a short description of why this nominee deserves to be honored. The nomination should include examples of the nominee's level of commitment as well as any lasting contributions to the community.

Nominations must be submitted by Wednesday, April 18, 2007, either by e-mail at IndianaHeroes@pacers.com or via mail to: Indiana Pacers, INDIANA HEROES, 125 S. Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46204. Nomination forms are available at Conseco Fieldhouse Guest Relations or by clicking on this link.