A Bakersfield police officer who lost his leg following a shootout was honored Thursday by the California State Senate.
Officer Dennis Eddy received the award at the Kern County District Attorney's office.
Eddy was shot in the chest and leg in early February, while in pursuit of a local gang member.
The bullet that struck his chest did not penetrate his bullet proof vest, but his right leg had to be amputated.
"I was surprised when this happened and they told me they were going to amputate my leg. I was thinking it would be years down the road before I even walk again, and three months later I was standing up and walking around and it was just kind of crazy," said Eddy.
Eddy said he hopes to be back to work by the end of this year.
