A pat on the back always feels good to recipient and deliverer. When warranted, it’s the right thing to do and should happen more often.

Congratulations – this is a pat on the back – to the Montezuma County sheriff’s officers and staff members who were singled out for their exceptional law enforcement work in an April 7 ceremony. Sheriff Steve Nowlin presented the awards.

Nowlin spoke of the codes of ethics and conduct that all – peace officers, administrative and other staff members – must adhere to around keeping the peace, safeguarding lives and property, and protecting the innocent. It takes everyone in the department to serve the public and ensure their trust, he said.

Nowlin recognized 10 people (Journal, Apr. 16). A “Life Saving Award” went to Deputy

Rebecca Lambert for recognizing that a veteran needed critical assistance during a welfare check, and a “Distinguished Service Award” to Agriculture Deputy

Michael Marston Jr. for calming an aggressive dog that was protecting his owner who had committed suicide.

Meritorious Service Awards went to Sgt.

Bryan Hill and Deputy

Cayden Worcester who, on a welfare check, shot and killed an armed man who refused to lower his weapon.

Letters of Commendation were earned by Records Section Manager

Heather Mann, Records Section Assistant

Taylor Hill, Administration Assistant

Samantha Shaffer, Civil Process Deputy

Kenneth Geiger and Administration Division Supervisor K

endall Allen, each described as having one or more – high performance, attitude, quick learning and/or organizational qualities – all assets to the department and community.

Deputy

Kyler Rogers received the “Top DUI Arrest Deputy” for 2024, having identified seven intoxicated drivers.

High performing law enforcement officers and staff members make a community that much safer. It is fortunate that Montezuma County has them.