PBA President Pat Lynch addresses awards luncheon. In background are (l-r) First Vice President John Puglissi and the “Finest of the Finest” committee chairmen: City-Wide Trustee Brian Mooney, Queens South Trustee George Reynolds and Queens North Financial Secretary Dan Tirelli.

On Dec. 17, the PBA honored 43 New York City police officers and one Suffolk County cop as the “Finest of the Finest.” Among those cited was Richard Burt, whose swift reaction prevented further bloodshed after Council Member James Davis was assassinated in City Hall last July. Officer Burt demonstrated uncanny composure and marksmanship in gunning down Davis’ assassin without injury to innocent bystanders in the crowded City Council chambers.

PBA President Pat Lynch and other members of the union’s Executive Board hosted the awards luncheon, traditionally held twice a year at Manhattan’s Water Club. The officers — accompanied by their friends and family — were feted and presented with plaques commemorating feats of valor, compassion and resourcefulness ranging from daredevil rescues to dangerous shootouts.

	Pat Lynch with (l-r) Det. Richard Burt, City Council Speaker Gifford Miller and PBA Second Vice President Mubarak Abdul-Jabbar.

“Amazing acts of bravery and resourcefulness are performed by New York City police officers every day. Officer Burt and the others honored here today are examples of the most amazing of the amazing — the ‘Finest of the Finest,’ as we call them,” said Lynch. “Of all the awards our officers earn for their performance, we value these most highly. These cops are selected by other cops — by their peers — which makes it all that much more special.”

His brave act won P.O. Burt a battlefield promotion to the rank of detective.