The men sat chatting until Kono and Danny arrived.

A look of shock and surprise crossed Danny's face as he entered the room and spotted the Governor, "Sir…."
The Governor stood and shook hands with Danny and Kono, "Detective Williams I have been explaining to Commander McGarrett that upon information being released to the public about your IA investigation I was notified personally by all seven hostages. I have met with them all and I have come to the conclusion that not only will you face no disciplinary actions but you are to be awarded the Medal of Honor for your bravery and heroism. It is an honor to have a man of your character and dedication serving the State of Hawaii and we are indebted to you. Thank you"

Danny stood looking at Governor Denning in stunned silence.
After several seconds Steve spoke, "Governor…..you've accomplished a miracle here. No one has ever been able to render my partner here speechless"

They all chuckled as Danny Williams turned several shades of red and the words stumbled out, "I…I truly…I don't know what to say…..Thank you Governor"
The men again shook hands, "No detective, thank you. We will be in touch soon" He again shook hands with Steve and then he turned and left the Five-0 team alone.

Danny stood staring at Steve, eventually speaking, "What did you say to him?"
"I didn't even get a chance to say anything...….he said it all. Danno, I love you and I'm proud to be your partner. Thank You"

Danny stood frozen as Kono moved to him and embraced him, "Congratulations Danny but you didn't need an award for us to know that you're a hero"
"Thank you sweetheart"
Chin then grasped his hand and pulled him into a hug, "I told you bro, you'll never have to worry about your actions if you follow your instincts. As Denning said, you are a man of great character Danny Williams and we're all very proud to serve with you"

Tears were welling in Danny's eyes as he looked at his friends, 'his family'.

Steve then spoke, "Come here partner" Danny moved to the bed, leaning in and gladly accepting a hug from his best friend, "You're an amazing man Danno"

Stepping back Danny simply stated, "Wow….."
They all laughed and Steve just couldn't help himself, "WOW…that's all you've got, WOW? Danny Williams is still speechless! Kono is that what…ten words in ten minutes? I think the only time he's every been this quiet before is when he's been unconscious!"
They all laughed as Danny's discomfort was still notable.

50505050505050505050505050

Four weeks later at a formal ceremony Detective Daniel Scott Williams was awarded the Medal of Honor as his family, his Five-0 family and the hostages from the bank along with their families all sat proudly watching.

Steve's recovery was going well and he was due to go back to work the following week. After the ceremony Steve, Chin and Malia hosted a barbeque at Steve's home for everyone. It was the first time that Steve and Danny were able to talk with everyone involved in the events of that horrible day.

Once everyone other than the four of them had left Steve noticed that Danny had wandered down to the water. Grabbing a couple of beers he went down to join him.
"Here partner" Danny took the beer and turned towards Steve.

"What an amazing day huh Danny? You alright?"
"Oh yeah, I'm great partner. Talking to everyone Steve….seeing their spouses, their kids…..it really hit me"

"It should buddy. You didn't just save seven people, well eight counting me…you saved every one of those spouses, and every one of those kids. You're a hero Danny and each and every one them will never forget you. You saved them all partner"

"I'm not a hero Steve, I was just doing my job"
"You are a hero to them and to Chin, Kono and me. Now how about we go help those two clean up the house huh?"
"Is that how you treat a hero?"
"It's my job to keep you grounded buddy"

With that Steve wrapped his arm across his smiling friends' shoulder and they made their way back to the house as the sun set behind them over the Pacific Ocean.

THE END