Police, Fire First Responders Recognized With Local Awards

MOUNT VERNON, VA — Unsung first responder heroes received recognition for their impacts on public service at Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce's 18th annual Police & Firefighters Tribute.

The tribute included stories of how each first responder made a difference and went beyond their job duties. Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck, Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk, Col. Joseph Messina and department leaders helped present awards. Roberta Tinch, the head of Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, was also present to praise the dedication of first responders.

"Our first responders have a passion for helping others," said Storck. "We applaud their commitment and need them in our community."

Award recipients from the Franconia Police station were Andrew Cox for Police Officer of the Year; Selah Rash for Detective of the Year; Gary Gaal for Police Volunteer of the Year; Kim Barber for Meritorious Service; and Travis Tate for Supervisor of the Year.

Mount Vernon Police Station recipients were Kenyatta Momon for Meritorious Service; John Buffington for Detective of the Year; Moises Romero for Officer of the Year; Juan “Rick” Lopez and Sharon Nichols for Auxiliary Officer of the Year, and Carlos Lama for Supervisor of the Year.

Recipients from the West Springfield Police Station were Steven M. Lescallett for Meritorious Service; Bryan C. Huntley for Detective of the Year; Jeffrey A. Sledge for Officer of the Year; James “Tom” Gaetjen for Auxiliary Officer of the Year, and Cary J. Petrovich for Supervisor of the Year.

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department recipients were Steven Chen for Volunteer Firefighter of the Year; Andrew Snell for Company Officer of the Year; Mike Salzano for Firefighter of the Year; and Miriam Pelham for EMT Medic of the Year.

The Fort Belvoir Police Department recognized Philip Young as Police Officer of the Year; Christopher Ferris as Investigator of the Year; Samantha Risner as Military Police Officer of the Year; Brian A. Thomas for Police Supervisor Officer of the Year; and Heung Chu for Army Security Guard of the Year. Rort Belvoir Fire Department recipients were Adam E. Stover as Fire Company Officer of the Year; Johnny Roberts, Jr. as Firefighter Medic of the Year; and Ryan C. Barlow-McCallas Firefighter of the Year.