Police department has annual banquet
Three officers receive medal of valor award

Chief Rick Waller congratulates Officer Jacob Trest on his medal of valor award at last week's annual WPD banquet.

The Whitehouse Police Department held its Police Department Awards Banquet on Dec. 11 at the Southlake Grill.

The fifth annual event honored members of the department for years of service, as well as bestowing officer of the year and civilian of the year awards.

This year marked the first presentation of medal of valor plaques to officers Trent Richardson, Mark Stone and Jacob Trest.

"This is the department's highest award and is not given lightly," said Chief Rick Waller, adding that the guidelines for the honor are established in the department's policy and procedure manual and that the award must be given to an officer who "distinguishes himself conspicuously by gallantry and heroism in the face of extreme danger with the risk of imminent bodily injury."

"We had three officers that met the criteria set forth in the policy and were deserving of the award. I am proud to serve with them," said Waller.

Marks Stone receives his medal of valor plaque from Chief Rick Waller.

Jeff Fite was chosen Officer of the Year, an award acknowledging the officer who has exhibited the best overall performance during the year.

"Jeff has a multifaceted job which requires not only traffic enforcement duties operating the department motorcycle but he must answer calls, take reports, investigate crimes related to calls he responds to, as well as everything else that comes his way during a shift," said Waller. "He is an asset to this department and we are fortunate to have him."

Administration officer Lauri Dillman was named Civilian of the Year.

Service pins were given to: Chief Rick Waller and Sgt. James Stewart, five years; Warrant Officer Bob Overman and Sgt. Darryl McCartney, 10 years; and Lt. Lee Long, 15 years.

Trent Richardson receives his medal of valor plaque from Chief Rick Waller. Administrative officer Lauri Dillman is recognized as the Civilian of the Year. Chief Rick Waller congratulates Officer of the Year Jeff Fite.