Officers, their families and a few guests gathered at Chattanooga Elks Lodge on February 17 for a celebration of the values and accomplishments within the Collegedale Police Department (CPD). The ceremony featured guest speaker and veteran Jack Carney, who spoke prior to the awards being handed out to officers who showed courage and bravery in their line of duty.
According to Jamie Heath, a lieutenant in the special investigations department, the CPD started the ceremony last year in the hopes of creating a special atmosphere for officers to be recognized and to celebrate with their spouses and significant others.
Also in attendance was Collegedale Mayor Katie Lamb, who spoke a few words at the beginning of the ceremony.
“I congratulate you tonight on the recognitions and the awards that you’ll be receiving, and I thank you for your service,” Lamb said. “I want to thank you for being willing to put yourself on the line every day of the year. So, thank you very much on behalf of the commissioners; we’re proud of you.”
Among the new traditions, the CPD started a ceremonial cake-cutting. Heath presented the first slices of cake to Carney, the keynote speaker; Assistant Chief Jeff Young, in celebration of his longstanding years of service for the CPD and Officer Sarah Tabor, in recognition of being the newest member of the force.
Jack Sapp, chief of police, offered a few words to honor the CPD.
“Over the last year or so, it’s just been unbelievable to watch everybody come together,” Sapp said, “to watch you men and women go out and work every day and see how you lean on each other and support each other. Not only just at work, but I see it in your personal lives.”
Many awards were handed out, including the Criminal Investigations Award, Merit Award for Excellent Arrest, Purple Heart, Life-Saving Award and General Commendation Award. The Silver Star of Bravery, an award from the American Police Hall of Fame, was presented to Lt. Burlon Hayworth.
Sapp closed by thanking those involved behind-the-scenes and those attending.
“I want to thank the spouses and the loved ones who were here tonight, who continually support and allow us to do what we do each day,” Sapp said. “You’re generally the unsung heroes who stand behind us at our moments of triumph and success, but also suffer with us during our difficult times. We simply couldn’t do what we do without you. So, thank you.”
