Police Dole Out Awards At Annual Ceremony

Image: Chief Frederick Ryan shakes hands with Lieutenant James White, who plans to retire in April after more than 30 years with the department. Image cred: Arlington Police.

On Feb. 26, the Arlington Police Department commemorated several members of the force at its annual awards ceremony.

• Specific recognition was given to Officer John Kelley, declared the 2014 Officer of the Year.
• For his part in combating an armed bank robbery on Jan. 17, Officer Michael Foley was given the Department Medal of Honor.
• Six total Meritorious Service Ribbons were to distributed. One to Officer Brett Blanciforti and another to Officer Scott Paradis for aiding with apprehending a suspected rapist. Officer Robert Smith was awarded a ribbon for rescuing a choking victim at a restaurant, and Officer Anargyros Siempos was given three ribbons for playing a crucial role in his father’s survival of a heart attack episode.
• Officer David Martin received the Top Gun Certificate for superior marksmanship.
• Lieutenant Richard Pedrini was given a Department Excellence in Leadership award.
• Retiring Lieutenant James White was recognized for his 32-year stint with the Arlington Police Department.

Several other officers and civilians received commendations for their accomplishments in 2014.