Rockwall, TX (April 4, 2024) – Rockwall Noon Rotary welcomed attendees to their annual Public Safety Awards luncheon on April 4. Each year, Rotary takes time to recognize public servants for the critical role they play in the safety and security of everyone throughout Rockwall County.
“We truly appreciate everything that first responders do,” said Rotarian Trevor Reed. “We know that if we have to make that call, someone will respond.” Reed further acknowledged that the county departments work so well as a team which speaks to the respect they have for each other.
The 2024 awards recipients by department were:
Fate Department of Public Safety
Officer of the Year – Zach Fish
Chief Lyle Lombard stated that Officer Fish’ supervisor selected him for this recognition due to the quality of his patrol work as well as the key role he plays in training and recruiting newer officers.
Fire Fighter of the Year – Gary Wallace
Chief Lombard recognized Gary Wallace for returning as Fire Fighter of the Year for the second year in a row saying that he is a leader in the department, who is always ready to take on any special project or assignment.
Heath Department of Public Safety
Officer of the Year – Seth Aldridge
Chief Brandon Seery stated that Officer Aldridge is known for his strong work ethic, personality, and his willingness to volunteer for any job, task or responsibility needing attention.
McLendon-Chisholm Fire Department
Firefighter of the Year – Captain Shawn Clements
Chief Jim Simmons announced Captain Clements as their recipient highlighting his dedication to the role beginning in 2019 as a part-time fire fighter, later moving into a driver position and with his promotion to Captain in 2021.
Royse City Fire Department
Firefighter/Paramedic of the Year – Jackson Jacobs
On behalf of Royse City Fire, Shaun Brown presented Jackson Jacobs with their annual award, voted on by their members, saying that Fire Fighter Jacobs is known to be a strong, committed part of their team.
Royse City Police Department
Officer of the Year – Sergeant Triston Leigh-Manuell
Chief Kirk Aldridge recognized Sergeant Leigh-Manuell for moving up the ranks quickly. He also shared a text from a community member that spoke to the way in which he performs his job saying in part “they had a chance to cross paths with Triston and that he was amazing, and the community was lucky to have him.”
Rockwall County EMS
Paramedic of the Year – Marco Alfaro
Scott Bell, Director for Rockwall County EMS, remarked that one of the key reasons Paramedic Alfaro was selected for their award is for the way he cares for their patients, treating each like a family member.
Rockwall Fire Department
Firefighter of the Year – Erick Sotelo
In describing Fire Fighter Sotelo, Chief Kenneth Cullins shared that he is a servant leader who puts others ahead of self, noting that he was selected for the award by his fellow co-workers.
Rockwall Police Department
Officer of the Year – Officer Jeff Campbell
Chief Ed Fowler recognized Officer Campbell, saying he exemplifies the qualifications of the best police officer. He also recognized his experience in a variety of departments including auto theft, major crimes unit, and criminal investigations since he began his law enforcement career in 2008.
Rockwall Sheriff’s Department
Employee of the Year – Briar Butner, Communications Specialist
Speaking to the significant role that communications play in their department, Sheriff Terry Garrett recognized Butner for the way she gathers and distributes information in a coherent manner, especially when dealing with frantic and chaotic situations.
