Smithtown Public Safety Holds Awards Ceremony

SMITHTOWN, NY — The Town of Smithtown Department of Public Safety and town officials honored public safety officers at an awards ceremony on May 15, the town announced.

The ceremony is held during National Police Week every year. Awards were presented to nine Public Safety officers for "exceptional dedication and commitment to the job," according to the town.

The ceremony was led by Tom Lohmann, director of public safety, with support from Deputy Director Catherine Caillat and division leaders.

"It is with a great sense of pride that I get to present these officers with their recognitions for the selfless work throughout the year," Lohmann said in a news release. "Having been with this department for over 20 years, I have seen day in and day out the dedicated service which all members of the department provide to the residents and visitors of the township. All of our the officers who were promoted and those who received departmental awards are extremely deserving of their recognitions."

Harbormasters Thomas Daly and Donny Edwards were presented with the Meritorious Service Awards for a daring Smithtown Bay rescue of two badly burned boaters.

The Exceptional Service Award was presented to Fire Marshals Timothy Clark, Matthew Raia, Zakary Griffin, Kyle McCarthy, and James Easton for their actions during a home structure fire.

The Department Recognition Award was presented to Sergeant Scott Roberts for his actions during an overdose at Long Beach.

The award for Peace Officer of the Year was presented to Raia for exemplary qualities and characteristics associated with being a dedicated law enforcement professional.

"It gives me a great sense of pride to commend the Smithtown Department of Public Safety today, along with the honorees, your families, and those Peace Officers receiving a promotion in rank, for their exceptional dedication and commitment to the job," said Smithtown Councilman Tom Lohmann, liason to the Smithtown Department of Public Safety. "The role of a peace officer is far more complex than it was just a decade ago … requiring a greater level of fortitude, affinity, and steadfast dedication to service. You make us proud every day and it's truly an honor to acknowledge and properly thank you and your families."

Additionally, four officers were recognized for receiving promotions prior to the presentation of awards. Thomas Smith was promoted from park ranger sergeant to park ranger lieutenant. Brendan Dennihy was promoted from park ranger investigator to park ranger sergeant. Brian Cann was promoted from park ranger to park ranger sergeant. Christopher Gonzalez was promoted from park ranger to park ranger investigator.

"I would like to commend this year's recipients, and congratulate those receiving much deserved promotions in rank," Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said. "The Department of Public Safety is a shining example of what it means to protect and serve the people of Smithtown. As we close out National Police Week, it gives me great pride to thank each of you for your service, on behalf of the citizens of Smithtown."