Award Descriptions

Medal of Honor

This medal may be awarded to any member of the force for an act of bravery performed under circumstances that also posed an imminent risk of serious physical injury or death. It may be awarded only in exceptional circumstances for such acts of gallantry or valor when such act was performed by the member in spite of his full knowledge of the risks, above and beyond the call of duty.

Medal of Valor

This medal may be awarded to a member of the force who, at risk to his own life, engages an armed adversary in personal combat involving the use of deadly force. It may also be awarded to a member who performs an act of valor despite an imminent risk to their own life.

Meritorious Police Service Award

This award may be given to a member of the force for outstanding police service through acts which exemplify professional performance resulting in a highly creditable accomplishment bringing acclaim to the member or the department. It may also be granted to a member who, through an exceptional display of resourcefulness and expertise, intelligent performance of police work, or by devotion to duty, investigates an incident resulting in the arrest of the perpetrator(s) of the crime and/or recovery of property of substantial value.

Police Officer of the Year

This award shall be granted to one member each calendar year who distinguishes themselves from their peers by actions which represent the highest standards of the police profession. The members recommended for consideration by supervisors must have no sustained departmental or citizen complaints for the year, must have maintained an acceptable level of productivity and a minimal level of absenteeism. One nomination for this award may be submitted each year by each sergeant and lieutenant to the Chief of Police. The recipient shall be at the Chiefs discretion.

Community Police Officer of the Year

This award shall be granted to one member each calendar year who distinguishes themselves from their peers by their actions and participation with the community. The members recommended for consideration by supervisors must show a desire to work with the community above and beyond that of a normal Officer. They should be involved in community oriented policing and interact with public on a daily basis. One nomination for this award may be submitted each year by each Sergeant and Lieutenant to the Chief of Police. The recipient shall be at the Chief’s discretion.

Emergency Medical Service Award

This award may be granted to any member who, through effective first aid and medical attention, saves a persons life by administering basic life support or other medical aid. The subject of the medical assistance must live beyond emergency room admission and treatment.

Citation of Commendation

This award shall be granted to a member who has received, cumulatively, 3 letters of commendation. For each additional 3 letters of commendation, another award shall be issued.

Letter of Commendation

A letter of commendation may be issued to any member who has performed a highly creditable police service, upholding the highest ideals of the police profession. It may also be issued to Officers of other agencies or to civilians who have provided an outstanding service to the Wilton Police Department. Letters of Commendation may be issued directly by the Chief of Police, by the Chief of Police upon the recommendation of a supervisor, or by the Board of Recommendations.

Letter of Recognition

A letter of recognition may be issued to any member who has performed above and beyond the normal call of duty. Letters of recognition may be issued directly by the Chief of Police, by the Chief of Police upon the recommendation of a supervisor, or by the Board of Recommendations.