LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced the creation of a state award and presented it for the first time on Tuesday.
Sanders presented the Arkansas Medal of Freedom to Sheriff Mike Knoedl of Dallas County. Knoedl was one of the first responders and organized a response to the Mad Butcher mass shooting in Fordyce in June 2024.
The presentation was made toward the end of the governor’s state-of-the-state address before both houses of the Arkansas legislature on Tuesday. Sanders said the award was established to “honor Arkansans who have distinguished themselves in service to their state and fellow citizens.”
“I cannot think of a better person to receive the first Medal of Freedom than Sheriff Knoedl,” the governor said. “Mike, please join me at the podium so this distinguished chamber and our entire state can recognize you for your bravery and sacrifice.”
Dallas County Sheriff Mike Knoedl, about the receive the Arkansas Medal of Freedom from Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders during a joint session of the legislature, Jan. 14, 2025. (courtesy governor’s office)
Sanders said that Knoedl’s award extended past service.
“As Mike exemplifies, Arkansans are the kindest, most hardworking, most generous people on earth,” she said. “As their public servants, let us walk in their footsteps and live out their example every day of this legislative session.”