Local Heroes Honored for Acts of Bravery and Kindness

OBA Staff • May 7, 2025

Silent auction and dinner raise funds for the homeless

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Sunny 105.7 hosted its first-ever “Heroes of the Gulf Coast” event to celebrate everyday people who showed courage and compassion during times of crisis. The event honored seven individuals from the community. These heroes included police, firefighters, doctors, and citizens. Each showed selflessness and bravery that made a real difference.

The event took place on April 24th at The Port at Zeke’s in Orange Beach. It was presented by Baldwin EMC and raised money for The Sea Glass Initiative. Guests enjoyed a surf-and-turf dinner and took part in a silent auction.

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Award Recipients Include:

One of the honorees was Retired Master Sgt. Michael Munyon, a U.S. Air Force veteran. He was honored for his dedication to safety, defense training, and life-saving efforts. He received the Military Hero award, presented by New Horizon Insurance.

Tim Harry was named Youth Advocate Hero. He rescues children from human trafficking and founded Silent Knight Rescue to find missing children on the Gulf Coast. Award presented by Brett Robinson.

Officer Gabe Trujillo of Gulf Shores Police was honored as the Public Safety (Police) Hero. He acted quickly and saved a life before EMTs arrived on scene. Award presented by Columbia Southern University.

Dr. Ryan Forbess was the Medical Hero. While vacationing, he gave life-saving care to a teenage shark attack victim, showing his dedication to helping others at any time. Award presented by Baldwin Health.

Deputy Sydney Wentworth received the Beach Rescue Hero award. She saved swimmers off Fort Morgan but sadly lost her partner, Deputy Bill Smith, during the rescue. Award presented by Anchor Pawn.

Firefighter TJ Winston of Orange Beach Fire Rescue was the Public Safety (Fire) Hero. He remained calm and gave critical care during a serious car crash. The award presented was by Beachball Properties.

Jim and Jack Muhle were honored as Good Samaritan Heroes. After Hurricane Helene, they brought supplies and tools to North Carolina to help with recovery efforts. Award presented by Seacrest Furniture & Coastal Boat & RV Sales.

Guests enjoyed a surf-and-turf dinner prepared by The Port at Zeke’s and participated in a silent auction featuring over 25 items. The event raised over $10,000 for The Sea Glass Initiative. The nonprofit helps unhoused residents in Baldwin County. Their mission is to rebuild lives and prevent homelessness.

Penny Hughey and Michelle Hillman of The Sea Glass Initiative thanked the attendees and shared stories of those in need. They said many people are unhoused due to illness, violence, or loss—not poor choices.

Sunny 105.7 co-owner Mary Williams said the event was about lifting spirits and honoring local heroes. She praised the Gulf Coast community and the work being done to help others.

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