Sargeant Katarzyna Ganley has come a long way ever since she almost lost her life in October 2015. She suffered two brain aneurysms.
It took her six months to recover and now she is back at work.
She was recognized at the Jewish Community Center Tuesday night.
"It was wonderful. it almost made me cry. It made me feel appreciated," said Ganley.
Ganley wasn't alone. She and 36 other members of the 120th precinct were honored.
The annual event was organized by the Staten Island Council of Jewish Organizations. Organizers say it's important to recognized New York's finest.
"All police officers do tremendous work but this is the exeptional work of the officers tonight," said Mendy Mirocznik with the Staten Island Council of Jewish Organizations.
It's an event precicnt commander Robert Bocchino says is needed, especially now when police and community relations are under scrutiny.
"I think every little bit helps," Bocchino said. "Every one likes to get a pat on the back every once in a while let them know that theyre doing a good job."
Officers we spoke with say it was an honor to be recognized. They say they chose this line of work to better their community.
"I'm just doing my job," said officer Duane Conner. "I'm not in it for the rewards. I just like to see the smiles on kids faces," said
Each of the honorees went home with a plaque.