On January 22, 2015, the Fountain Valley Police Department held a Special Awards Ceremony at Hyundai Motor America, which recognized Department personnel who have been in harm’s way, saved lives, and have done amazing things. The Department recognized 25 individuals and presented four awards: the Chief’s Commendation, Medal for Lifesaving, Purple Heart, and Medal of Merit.
The Chief’s Commendation was awarded to Lead Dispatcher Tina Blum.
The Medal for Lifesaving recognizes individuals who “by his/her direct actions saved a human life or sustained the life of another human being during an emergency situation.” The Medal for Lifesaving was awarded to: Sergeant Anthony Luce, Sergeant Kham Vang, Senior Officer James Cataline, Senior Officer Naomi Derocher, Senior Officer Donald Farmer, Senior Officer Jennifer Pratt, Officer Michael Bonaventura, Officer Anthony Clements, Officer Enrique De La Cruz, Officer Brent Emerson, Officer Kevin Erskine, Officer Michael Fitzpatrick, Officer Kimberly Holmes, Officer Henry Hsu, Officer William Hughes, Officer Brian Mosher, Officer Lorena Nelson, Officer Richard Nilos, Officer Sergio Rodriguez, Officer Shannon Squyres, and Officer Julio Vega.
The Purple Heart Medal recognizes individuals who “incurred serious injury or death during exposure to hazardous actions or the apprehension of a suspect.” The Purple Heart Medal was awarded to Officer Shannon Squyres.
The Medal of Merit is awarded in recognition of “conspicuous actions for the performance of an endeavor which brings significant status or recognition to the Department.” The Medal of Merit was awarded to Officer Anthony Clements and Officer Shaun MacKay.