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Pete Frates Receives Ron Burton Community Service Award

BOSTON (CBS) – He's the king of the Ice Bucket Challenge to fight ALS. And today Pete Frates received an award that's dear to everyone at WBZ-TV.

It's the MIAA Ron Burton Community Service Award, that also honors Steve and Paul Burton's father. Steve did today's honors.

"Strike out ALS!" shouted Frates family, posing with him for a photo to commemorate the occasion.

That's Pete's mission, to end the scourge of that progressive, debilitating disease.

Peter Frates Ron Burton Award
WBZ-TV's Steve Burton presents the Ron Burton Community Service Award to Pete Frates. (WBZ-TV)

The Burton award honors people who give of themselves to help others.

"If my Dad were alive he'd be so proud of what you've accomplished in your lifetime. You've touched so many lives, and it means the world to us," Steve said.

Pete's wife Julie spoke about the family's mission.

"Pete said from the moment he was diagnosed that he was going to change the trajectory of this disease and that's exactly what he's done," Julie Frates said.

Peter Frates Ron Burton Award
Pete Frates with his Ron Burton Community Service Award. (WBZ-TV)

"One man can change the world. He inspired a movement that is the largest viral sensation in the history of mankind so that we never have to hear those three letters ALS again," added John Frates, Pete's father.

The Ice Bucket Challenge has raised millions of dollars to fight the disease. For more information visit the ALS Association website.

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