SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - On Thursday, the city of Springfield honored an officer who has gone above and beyond for the greater good. Wellpoint Health Solutions and the Springfield police department named Officer Nestor Santos a "Hometown Hero." "Hometown Hero" is an initiative by Wellpoint and 98.5 The Sports Hub, that recognizes first responders who showcase bravery and selflessness. In June 2024, Officer Santos was shot in the face and leg while driving to work. It left a bullet fragment lodged in his head. After many surgeries, he lost his vision in one eye. Santos said that did not stop him from wanting to continue his work as an officer. He's been with the Springfield Police Department for 7 years now. "I'm just proud to be here and like I said I'm proud to be a Springfield police officer. I love helping people out, I love doing that," said Officer Santos. On Thursday, he was surprised with a plaque and a Boston Bruins jersey signed by the whole team. The Bruins will also host him at a game. Santos told 22News that he plans to be back in the line of duty, on June 4th. Local News Headlines How Springfield Public Schools is handling the loss of $47M in federal cuts Springfield students explore judicial system during Springfield Courthouse tour Springfield Officer Nestor Santos named “Hometown Hero” for his bravery Gov. files $756M supplemental budget bill WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less