The ceremony was attended by Police Assistant Commissioner Richard Chambers, Hawke’s Bay Police Area Commander Lincoln Sycamore, CHB Mayor Alex Walker, and Te Taiwhenua o Tamatea Chair Jenny Nelson-Smith.
Karen Olsen-Mills was recognised for 28-years-service to Police. Sergeant Neil Baker, the officer-in-charge of CHB Police, said Karen “is the glue that holds the station together”, and has “impressive local knowledge, professionalism, and integrity”.
Three constabulary staff were recognised for their brave action when responding to a house fire in Waipukurau in August. Sergeants’ Neil Baker and Damion Davies, and Senior Constable Andy Walker, were acknowledged for their bravery and quick thinking when responding to the Gaisford Terrace fire on August 22nd, where they saw a man unconscious just outside his backdoor. After jumping a fence, they managed to perform CPR and carry the man to safety while being engulfed in thick black smoke. A St John spokesperson later credited them with saving the man’s life.
Civilian Amy Jeffrey, who lived next door to the fire, was also recognised for her actions in smashing a lounge window allowing a dog to escape to safety. Ms Jeffery also assisted other neighbours with putting water onto a fence that had caught fire.
