PUTTING their lives on the line for the community is par for the course for New England Local Area Command police.
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Officers were awarded for diligent and ethical service and outstanding responses during operations at a ceremony on Wednesday.
We’re fortunate to have police like you, people that each and every day go about your work in a very non-selfish manner.
- Deputy-Commissioner Gary Worboys
Regional Deputy Commissioner Gary Worboys said country policing required a special type of person.
“We’re fortunate to have police like you, people that each and every day go about your work in a very non-selfish manner,” Mr Worboys said.
Guyra’s Sergeant Jason Burton was awarded a National Medal First Clasp for 25 years of continued diligent service.
Armidale Inspectors Roger Best, Matthew Crotty and Superintendent Fred Trench received a Certificate of Merit for their involvement in Strike Force Durkin.
The officers arrested a dangerous offender who was on the run for six years after committing murder, indecent assault and wounding a police officer.
Using innovative technology in extreme weather conditions, the state-wide operation was a success.
Armidale Regional Council mayor Simon Murray said it was a privilege to show his support.
“I take my hat off to them, they’re providing a terrific service to the community,” Cr Murray said.
“Policing is important, they support us as a comunity and it’s important that we support them.”
Armidale Sergeant John Walkowiak was awarded a commendation for his involvement in the Western Region State Protection Support Unit.
Serving the community for more than 25 years, Sergeant Walkowiak has attended countless high-risk incidents in his career.
Regional Deputy-Commissioner Gary Worboys said every police officer deserves a special thanks.
“Our communities are different, people know their neighbours, they know the police in their communities and they care about them,” Mr Worboys said. “The police in country NSW need to respond to each and every crime, each and every call for help, each and every time.”