U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has recognized a Deschutes National Forest law enforcement officer as an "Unsung Hero" for his outstanding work in the field.

In mid-May, Vilsack recognized Deschutes National Forest Law Enforcement Officer, Eduardo Cartaya, as an ?Unsung Hero? at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., hosted by the Organization of Professional Employees of USDA. Cartaya was one of two Forest Service employees in the nation honored this year.

Cartaya, a graduate of West Point, was recognized for several incidents last year in which he demonstrated dedication to his job and the public.

In January 2011, he worked with a fellow officer to access a remote area on snowmobiles to provide medical aid to an injured man with a potential skull fracture. As an EMT, Cartaya re-warmed the victim and administered first aid until a helicopter could evacuate the man.

That same month, Cartaya recovered evidence that closed a case, open since 1960, involving resource damage and theft.

In June 2011, Officer Cartaya investigated vandalism to a culturally and historically significant cave, Hidden Forest Cave, and arrested five suspects. He gained confessions from all the suspects, resulting in a grand jury indictment of all five.

In August of 2011, Cartaya responded to a driver stuck in a truck turned on its side. Fuel was pouring on the driver and Cartaya was able to remove the driver and provide first aid.

?Although Eddy is relatively new to the agency, he has proven himself to be an invaluable asset to the Forest Service. He brings a tremendous work ethic, technical skills, unbelievable energy, and leadership to his position. Eddie is the future of the agency, and I look forward to working with him for many years,? said Daniel Smith, a law enforcement captain and Cartaya?s supervisor.