MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - The bus driver and children involved in the Midland City school bus abduction were honored on Thursday by the Alabama State Board of Education.
State schools superintendent Tommy Bice spoke of Charles Poland's bravery and extraordinary sacrifice. Poland's widow, Mary Janice, and his daughter, Lydia Poland Hancock, accepted the honors.
Poland - known as Chuck - died January 29 when a gunman forced his way onto the Dade County school bus he was driving and demanded two children be handed over. Poland resisted, allowing all students but one to escape.
A permanent memorial to Poland's heroism has been installed outside the state superintendent's office in Montgomery.
Poland's bravery has been recognized by the Alabama Legislature and the U.S. Congress.
The students were presented with proclamations and lauded for their actions.
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