Wednesday, April 24, 2002
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Wednesday, April 24, 2002 |
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Legion gives public safety awards By JANET
McGREGOR
Friends, fellow officers, members of the American Legion and family honored eight outstanding Fayette County police, fire and emergency service personnel recently at the 4th Annual American Legion Post 105 Public Safety Recognition Awards. Officers from the Fayette County Sheriff, Fayetteville Police, Fayetteville Fire, Peachtree City Fire, Peachtree City Police and Tyrone Police Departments were honored. The annual dinner and awards presentation by Legion members honors individuals selected by their respective departments. Some were selected by vote of their fellow officers, others selected by their superiors. Commissioner Greg Dunn, the evening's master of ceremonies, commended the group for their commitment to their work and for giving of their time in other ways. "The eight who will be awarded tonight also serve in the community in civic organizations, churches and contribute their time while off duty," he said. "Not only ready to give up their lives every day when they go to work but they use their off time in service to the community as well." Tyrone Police Officer Steven Lafferty was commended for his leadership abilities and other accomplishments. In April 2001 while involved in a drug bust, a suspect became entangled in his seat belt while exiting the car. The car began rolling, dragging the suspect across the parking lot toward a parked car. According to Tyrone Police Chief Roger Spencer, "Officer Lafferty risked his life by jumping into he suspect's moving vehicle just before the open door was crushed shut and was able to stop the car before the suspect was injured." Lafferty received the Fayette County Sheriff's Department Meritorious Service Award due to "being an integral part" of a seizure of 150 kilos of cocaine, 1359 pounds of Marijuana and $243,989 the largest marijuana seizure and second largest cocaine seizure in the history of Fayette County. Firefighter Paramedic Andrew Lee added the American Legion award to a list of many. He won the Peachtree City Department's "Firefighter of the Year" for his "coolness under fire." He has completed many building projects to save taxpayers' dollars and submitted ideas for equipment that would make firefighters safer. Lee also serves as councilman in his hometown of Temple and as a corpsman in the Navy Reserve. The Peachtree City Police nominated Cpl. Nicole Smucker. The Department also named her the "2001 Rookie of the Year" for her accomplishments. Chief Murray commended Smucker, saying he appreciated the sacrifices she had made. "I couldn't think of a more deserving person. She donates her time and is a really wonderful police officer and mother." Smucker works with Internet crime in addition to performing her regular assigned patrol work. The Fayetteville Fire Department selected Sergeant Scott Fields to win the award. Fields served as a volunteer with the department in the early 90s. After completing his degree, he returned to the organization as an employee in 1998. As a result of Field's actions, the department has received numerous grants for the purchase of equipment. He was successful in obtaining a $20,000 grant for thermal imaging camera and $31,000 for the purchase of fitness equipment. Master Patrol Officer Scott Gibson, a former U.S. Marine, was honored from the Fayetteville Police Department. Chief Johnny Roberts said, "Scott is one that every chief loves to have." He noted that Gibson "is quick to respond and help others in need. and brings with him a sense of dedication and commitment." Unfortunately for Fayette County, Gibson is currently in the process of leaving to work with the United States Secret Service. The Fayette County Department of Fire and Emergency Services recommended Firefighter/EMT Mark Johnson for the recognition. Johnson is assigned to the fire station in Tyrone. Deputy Chief Tom Bartlett highlighted Johnson's contributions to the department and to the community. Johnson volunteers in several programs which distribute donated items to community organizations that help the needs. He initiated a similar program within the Department known as "Helping the Helpers." Fire department personnel donate items which are stored for those in need. Deputy Sheriff and School Resource Officer Anthony Rhodes was selected by the Fayette County Sheriff's Department for the award. Rhodes was the 1998 recipient of the Sheriff's Distinguished Service Award for his actions during an automobile accident that occurred during his shift. He works as a Resource Officer at Sandy Creek High School. Lt. Tommy Pope praised Rhodes for being a positive role model for the students and staff. He noted, "His knowledge of the student body has assisted the Sheriff's Office in a variety of ways. Deputies like Anthony Rhodes make this department one of the best in the state." The Fayette County Sheriff's Department selected Detention Officer Brian Wallace as their nominee. Wallace is a Certified Communications Officer, Certified Detention Officer and will soon attend the Police Academy to become a Certified Law Enforcement Officer. Major Robert Glaze spoke highly of Wallace. "He is a very hard worker, is conscientious and dedicated. He continually strives for perfection." Wallace has also worked as a 911 dispatcher for Fayette County in the past.
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