Three Norwich First Responders Garner National Recognition

NORWICH, CT — Three longtime city workers, including a police officer, dispatcher, and firefighter/EMT, recently got national recognition for their contributions to local public safety.

Every year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars picks law enforcement officers, firefighters, dispatchers, emergency medical technicians, and explosive disposal technicians to honor through its VFW Public Servant Awards.

Earl Colella, VFW commander of Connecticut District 4, said only one person wins in each category for each state. It is unusual for one city to win in three categories, he said.

“I haven’t heard of any city getting three awards in one year before,” Colella said.

The VFW asks local officials to nominate candidates for consideration, according to Colella, who also serves as adjutant for Norwich VFW Post 594.

The three Norwich responders who garnered top VFW awards this year for Connecticut included:

• Police Officer Robert Smith: VFW National Law Enforcement Public Servant Citation
• Emergency Dispatcher Daniel O’Brien: VFW National 911 Dispatcher Public Servant Citation
• Firefighter/EMT Zac Topping: VFW National Emergency Medical Technician Public Servant Citation

All three were honored at a special ceremony on May 2.

Mayor Peter Nystrom said the honor shows the cumulative impact of the three individuals’ contributions to the city.

“This city had three people acknowledged as being the best in their field and that has never happened before,” said Nystrom.

Smith’s law enforcement career spans 51 years. He spent two of those decades with the Jewett City Police Department, before transferring to Norwich police, where he is assigned to the midnight patrol division.

Smith was nominated because of his half-century in law enforcement and his mentorship of younger officers. During his career, he has worked to build relationships between police and the public, through participating in community events and outreach programs. Smith is known for his performance under pressure and ability to defuse conflicts, according to his nomination.

O’Brien, in his dispatcher role, has been a “critical link” between people in distress and emergency responders. He is known for remaining composed during high pressure situations, gathering essential information, and coordinating effective emergency responses. His efforts have directly contributed to saving lives, according to his nomination for the award.

O’Brien was also involved in developing a new Norwich Fire Department radio system, which supports a paid fire department and five volunteer fire departments.

Nystrom said Topping’s “outstanding leadership and community engagement” make him a deserving candidate for his award.

Topping has demonstrated “unwavering courage and professionalism” and leadership in all EMS and fire calls, according to Nystrom.

Know a first responder — past or present — who’s making a difference in Norwich? We’d love to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch.