BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) --Two sheriff deputies were recognized with Officer of the Year Awards at KCSO Headquarters on Friday. The awards honored deputies James Thorne and Phillip J. Campas, who died in the line of duty. Deputy Austin Burgess was awarded with the Campas Allegiance Award because he rescued a hostage held at knifepoint in 2022. "They wear uniforms but they're human beings as well," said Sheriff Donny Youngblood. "And they have emotions, and they suffer losses, just like everybody else in our community. Only, they have to get up and go back to work." Senior Deputy Shannon Biehl earned the James Thorne Memorial Award after supporting her peers through the office's grief after the death of Senior Deputy Ben Harmonson. "She spearheaded of her peer's support efforts ensuring that no one was left to deal with this grief alone." said Sheriff Youngblood. "Her leadership extended far beyond her immediate duties as she continued to check in with colleagues and offer support long after the initial shock had passed." An active year for the department looking at a bright 2025. The ceremony also recognized the promotion of 11 deputies. "We've hired over 400 people in the last two years, so we've really gone back to the process of filling holes that we've had for years," said Sheriff Youngblood. "And that really helps the morale of the organization." You can be part of the Sheriff's Department, find their job postings here.