Lifesaving Efforts Recognized By South Windsor Police

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT — The South Windsor Police Department recognized officers, civilian staff, and a member of the public during its annual awards and promotions ceremony, according to a department post.

Police said Cpl. Erika Kuzara was promoted during the ceremony.

A Medal of Valor was awarded to Officer Pierpont, while Cpl. Poehnert received a Distinguished Service Medal, for their roles in apprehending a dangerous suspect and providing lifesaving care during a violent assault. Cpl. Kuzara, Officer Hernando, and Officer Bravo also received a Distinguished Unit Medal for their involvement in that incident, police said.

Police also awarded a Distinguished Unit Medal to Sgt. Futtner, Cpl. Higgins, Officer Myska, Officer Bravo, PSD Dooley, and PSD Grant for locating suspects who fled from a stolen vehicle.

A Distinguished Service Medal was presented to Cpl. Cosenza and K-9 Mason for assisting Manchester police in locating a suicidal individual, according to the department.

Officer Clouser received a Certificate of Commendation for a long-term investigation that spanned several years and resulted in an arrest.

Police said Cpl. Higgins was separately honored with a Distinguished Service Medal for providing lifesaving care to a person suffering a medical emergency while trapped more than 20 feet in the air.

A Lifesaving Award was given to Sgt. Dobler for administering emergency care to an individual experiencing life-threatening medical effects. Police said Manchester ambulance personnel and Hartford HealthCare staff were also recognized for their roles in the response.

The department also presented a Civilian Certificate of Commendation to Daniel Gegenheimer, who police said pulled a person from a burning vehicle following a crash over the summer.