GOSHEN — More than 30 volunteers associated with the Elkhart County Sheriff's Department reserve unit have been recognized by President Bush.

The Presidential Service Awards honor those who have made valuable contributions in the areas of public safety, conservation, and charitable causes. Eleven of the current and retired sheriff's reserves received recognition for giving more than 4,0o0 hours of their time to volunteer activities. Each of the 33 honorees have given at least hundreds of hours of service.

For years, the sheriff's department has relied on the reserves to assist the patrol division. These deputies have the training and skills necessary to enforce laws and assist people in need. Their contribution to the department in 2007, considering the impact of decreased overtime needs and added traffic ticket revenues, has been estimated at more than $300,000.

In addition to working particularly busy times, such as weekends and during fair week, the reserves coordinate the sheriff's motorcycle patrol and a safety program involving child fingerprinting.

To learn more about the national volunteer program, visit presidentialserviceawards.gov.