Honorees

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Year Honored
2009
Honoree
Stephen H. Bunker
Agency
Maryland State Police
Agency City
Baltimore
Agency State
MD
Last Call
9/28/08
Cause of Death
Medical Aviation Accident
Biography
"He loved helping people and he loved aviation," said his wife, Sherry. Steve's love of public service led him to a career with the Maryland State Police, becoming a pilot in 1984. "He loved his job and loved the people he worked with, calling them his brothers and sisters. They were family to him," she said.<br /> <br /> Stephen Bunker, 59, of Waldorf, Maryland, was killed in the line of duty on September 28, 2008. The Maryland State Police rescue helicopter crashed early Sunday morning during a medevac operation for two individuals critically injured in an automobile accident. The helicopter was carrying five people when it crashed in Walker Mill Regional Park. There was one survivor.<br /> <br /> Steve retired from the Maryland State Police as a Corporal, with 26 years of service. He remained with the Aviation Command as a civilian pilot until his death. He was a member of the Maryland State Police Alumni Association. He received numerous commendations and letters of appreciation during his service, including the "Hero Award" from the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center.<br /> <br /> Steve was a devoted husband and father, spending most of his free time with his children in their extracurricular activities and recitals. "My father has always been a role model in my life. He taught me to be honest, hard-working and to keep a proper perspective; he is my hero," said daughter Stacie.<br /> <br /> Honored 2009