The following people will receive awards due to their heroism, professionalism, and commitment to our community. They have each gone “above and beyond” and will be recognized by Sheriff Michael Haley at the Board of County Commissioner’s Chambers at 9th & Wells, January 20 at 6:00pm.

BRONZE STAR – Given to those who distinguish themselves in a duty of great responsibility in which extraordinary efforts were used and personal risk was involved.

* Arias, Danny – Efforts in response to SWAT callout in Sun Valley
* Biggar, Abigail – Efforts in tracking an armed suspect.
* Bunyard, Cole – Apprehending suspect with a deadly weapon
* Carry, Dennis – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Dilk, Tony – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Encinas, Ronnie – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Eubanks – Frank – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Foster, Brian – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley
* Larramendy, Greg – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley
* Lodge, Larry – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley
* Nemeth, John – Bravery and courage in a deadly encounter
* Pillon, Rick – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley
* Wallace, Sean – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley
* Zirkle, Brandon – Efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.

MEDAL FOR LIFESAVING – Awarded to members of this agency who act to save or preserve a life or lives that would otherwise have expired without the direct action taken by the member.

* Poljak, Paul – Saved man who hanged himself in suicide attempt.

MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL – To members of this Office who perform superior accomplishments that result in significant contributions to the efficient operation of the Office and/or the good of the community resulting in major improvements in technology, organization, procedures, or community relations, and may be based upon a single act or exceptional personal efforts.

* Carry, Dennis –Organized regional Operation Northern Justice.
* Imbert, Benny – Successful efforts on Graffiti eradication.

MEDAL OF VALOR – Awarded to members of this agency who distinguish themselves by acts of heroism performed at personal risk of life or limb. These acts demonstrate great courage while facing extreme danger, but to a lesser degree than required for the Medal of Honor.

* Bowlin, Rob – Extraordinary efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Frankel, Dave – Extraordinary efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Herrera, Greg – Extraordinary efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* James, Eric (UNRPD) – Extraordinary efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Jones, Phil – Extraordinary efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Lee, Pat – Extraordinary efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Nauman, Greg – Extraordinary efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.
* Wright, Mike – Extraordinary efforts in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.

DISTINGISHED SERVICE MEDAL – Awarded to members who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in assigned duties with loyalty and dedication over a prolonged period.

* Balaam, Darin – Extraordinary leadership commanding SWAT operation.

MEDAL OF HONOR – Is the Sheriff’s highest award for members who distinguish themselves by heroism under exigent or life-threatening conditions, and consciously perform acts of bravery or outstanding feats while facing imminent danger without detriment to their mission.

* Bello, Marc – Bravery and selfless performance in response to a SWAT callout in Sun Valley.

SHERIFF’S STAR – At the discretion of the Sheriff, awarded to WCSO members or those outside the agency who, by their actions, have demonstrated conduct that is clearly beyond normal expectations.

* LeBar, Jim – Volunteers 30+ hours/week with Sheriff’s Office assisting Detective Bureau.
* Kocijanski, Jim – 14 year reserve with Search and Rescue and developed a gun safety program to protect children from firearms.