A handful of Western Australian Police representatives have been formally acknowledged for their insurmountable efforts.
On Monday, July 23, police personnel from around the state gathered at the Koombana Bay Sailing Club for a medal ceremony.
WA Police sergeant Gerard Murphy led the event with support from South West District Superintendent Mick Sutherland and WA Police Commissioner Chris Dawson.
Ten police representatives received WA Police Service Medals, while seven – including Police Prosecutor Sergeant Greg Ward – were awarded 20 Year Class – WA Police Service medals.
Sergeants Ian Gilyead and Laurie Stubbs were each given a National Service Medal – Second Class, before Senior Constable Stephanie Smith became the recipient of a National Service Medal – First Class.
Sergeant Peter Bamber was awarded a National Police Service Medal.
Former Bunbury Police Officer in Charge Peter Jenal received his commission and was promoted to the rank of Inspector.
Harvey Police Station Officer in Charge Laurie Morley and Police Prosecutor Senior Constable Karl Rep were awarded Police Stars.
Senior Sergeant Morley said the Police Star honoured those who had been injured or killed in the line of duty.
“I am very humbled and very proud,” he said.
“It’s an acknowledgement of those who have placed themselves in harm’s way and have suffered the consequences.
“It’s a way that the organisation recognises those of us who have been hurt.”
Sen. Const. Rep was equally grateful, telling the Mail: “It’s about showing respect to those who have been hurt in the job and about giving them some consideration”.
Superintendent Sutherland was proud of the admirable work conducted by police personnel in the South West and across the state.
“This is recognition for the hard work that all of these officers and police staff have done over the years,” he said.
“This is one way of recognising that sometimes we don’t say ‘thank you’ and I think this a way of thanking them.”
Commissioner Dawson said: “It’s really important to recognise their services, not just for the length of service but for the ethical and high-quality work that they provide”.
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