Last night’s Board meeting offered a great reminder of the caliber of people serving our community — and of the culture inside our police department. These awards were nominated by the officers’ own peers, which makes the recognition especially meaningful.
Three members of the Willard Police Department were formally honored for their professionalism, initiative, and commitment to public safety.
Officer Danielle Cale received the Outstanding Service Award for going above and beyond in launching and leading our new after-school D.A.R.E. program — an investment in our kids that will pay dividends long after the homework is done.
Corporal Mark Cole was honored with the Outstanding Character Award for consistently stepping up to address problems others might overlook. His proactive approach embodies what good policing — and good public service — looks like.
Our newest officer, Levi O’Neil, had an especially notable evening. He was named Outstanding Officer of the Year by the Willard Police Department for his steady work ethic, eagerness to learn, and quiet professionalism. He also received a Lifesaver Award from the Willard Fire District for his critical actions that helped save a member of our community — a powerful example of what “service before self” truly means.
Please join us in congratulating these officers for their well-deserved recognition. Willard is safer, stronger, and better because of their dedication.