The Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection is authorized to award the Connecticut medal of bravery directly or posthumously to any citizen of the state in recognition of a valorous and heroic deed performed in saving a life or for injury or death or threat of injury or death incurred in the service of the state or such citizen’s community or on behalf of the health, welfare or safety of other persons. Recommendations for the Connecticut medal of bravery may be submitted to the commissioner, in the form and manner prescribed by the commissioner, by any member of the public.