NORWICH – The Chenango County Bar Association celebrated the heritage of civil service, freedom and justice during the 54th annual National Law Day Friday, awarding two former Town of Norwich justices and the Sherburne-Earlville Mock Trial Team.

This year’s Law Day theme, “No Courts, No Justice, No Freedom,” recalls the influential and historic role that America’s courts have played in fostering the rights and liberties of all citizens. Preceeding the award presentations, Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Garry read aloud a proclamation from President Obama that stressed the importance of the nation’s courts, stating: “We need to do everything we can to enable their critical work ... the timeless principles of due process remain at the heart of our democracy.”

Supreme Court Judge Kevin Dowd also discussed the role law plays in maintaining civil order: “We are called upon, rightly or wrongly to solve disputes. This is one of those days you take a moment and reflect on what it’s all about ... It’s about caring about what you’re doing. It’s about caring about the people you service.”

John Cameron, president of the Chenango County Bar Association, presented the Evans brothers of Norwich with the Liberty Bell Award, recognizing the significant impact each has had in the local court system over the years and the influence they have had on other members of the Bar Association.