On May 31, 2005, the Massachusetts State Police honored forty-two award recipients at a ceremony held at the State House. The recipients included State Police officers, State Police civilian employees, local police officers, local firefighters, Massachusetts Turnpike employees and civilians.

The award recipients were honored for performing acts of bravery and for conducting public service and police work that went beyond the call of duty.

"The forty-two award recipients honored today have all assisted the Massachusetts State Police Department in carrying out its mission of serving the citizens of the Commonwealth. The actions for which they are being recognized today went beyond normal expectations and requirements," said Colonel Thomas G. Robbins, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police. "On behalf of the State Police, I would like to thank and commend all the recipients."

MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS

The Medal of Honor was established to honor sworn Department personnel who have performed acts of extraordinary heroism above and beyond the call of duty. The recipients of this award were Trooper Thomas V. Nartowicz, Jr. and Trooper Marian B. Fletcher.

Trooper Thomas V. Nartowicz, Jr., MSP
Trooper Marion B. Fletcher, MSP

On June 8, 2004, while conducting an undercover operation, Trooper Nartowicz had arranged to purchase a large amount of oxycontin pills. The officer and the subject had agreed to conduct the transaction near a housing development at the end of a dead-end street. As Trooper Nartowicz awaited the return of the main target, a male subject, acting as if intoxicated, approached the front of the cruiser and broke a glass bottle. Two additional male subjects exited a wooded area, and both were armed with handguns. One subject reached into Trooper Nartowicz's vehicle and pointed a loaded nine millimeter pistol at the Trooper's face and demanded the cash that he had brought with him to purchase the pills. This male subject also removed the car keys from the ignition and put them in his pocket so Trooper Nartowicz could not drive away. The subjects then retrieved the money and fled down a path in the wooded area to the location of a getaway car and driver. Trooper Marion Fletcher observed the assailants entering the getaway car and began to give chase. A high-speed pursuit ensued. Eventually, the vehicle drove into another housing development and stopped. Trooper Fletcher then effected a felony stop unassisted, instructing four male subjects, two of which were armed, to get out of the vehicle and onto the ground. Trooper Fletcher held these subjects like this for some time, until backup officers arrived. It was observed that two small children between the ages of 3 and 5 were inside the vehicle. Investigation revealed that the getaway driver was babysitting his nephews and brought them with him on the robbery. It was also learned that these armed robbers had planned the robbery in advance. Recovered from the vehicle were two loaded handguns, the money taken from Trooper Nartowicz, the keys to his cruiser, as well as other evidence. For demonstrating outstanding bravery, tenacity, restraint and for taking actions despite the potential of being killed, Trooper Thomas Nartowicz, Jr. and Trooper Marion Fletcher were awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Honor.

MEDAL OF VALOR RECIPIENTS

The Medal of Valor was established to bestow recognition upon sworn personnel who have performed specific acts of bravery or have exhibited outstanding courage while performing their duties. The recipients of this award were Trooper Matthew J. Guarino, Trooper Michael Benevento, Trooper Michael Cashman, Athol Police Officer Gregory E. Fortes and Athol Police Officer Randal A. Stange.

Trooper Matthew J. Guarino, MSP

On June 20, 2004, while off-duty, Trooper Matthew J. Guarino, his wife and a friend were boating on the Connecticut River. Trooper Guarino observed a boat adrift in billowing dark smoke. As they approached, Trooper Guarino observed a man in the water holding onto a line from the vessel. Trooper Guarino's wife retrieved their fire extinguisher. The victim in the water yelled that he couldn't hold onto the line much longer, at which time, Trooper Guarino dived into the water, grabbed the man and began swimming him back to his boat. At this point, the distressed vessel's gas tank exploded. With assistance from the others on his boat, Trooper Guarino was able to get this man into his boat and safely to shore, where fire department rescue personnel were arriving.

For his decisive, courageous actions which resulted in the prevention of loss of a life, Trooper Guarino was awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Valor.

Trooper Michael Benevento, MSP
Trooper Michael J. Cashman, MSP
Officer Gregory E. Fortes, Athol PD
Officer Randal Stange, Athol PD

On April 8, 2004, Trooper Michael Benevento and Trooper Michael J. Cashman were dispatched to assist the Athol Police Department in dealing with a 44-year-old suicidal male subject with a violent criminal history. The subject was armed with a machete and was threatening to kill himself, as well as anybody who went near him. The subject also stated that he wanted the police to take his life. Upon arrival at the scene, Trooper Benevento and Trooper Cashman, along with Athol Police Officer Gregory E. Fortes and Officer Randal Stange attempted to contain the subject in a small field.

Keeping their distance, the Troopers attempted to establish dialogue with the subject, but due to his disturbed mental state, which was altered further by substance abuse, the task proved to be very difficult. During the stand-off, which lasted approximately 45 minutes, the subject made repeated thrusts in the direction of the officers, in an attempt to goad them into shooting him. With negotiations producing little result and with dawn approaching, the officers began to fear that the eventual stirring of neighbors might exacerbate the situation. At that time When Trooper Benevento moved dangerously close to the subject, in an attempt to distract him, Trooper Cashman moved stealthily into a position behind the unstable man. The subject was distracted long enough to be sprayed with pepper mace, but the subject refused to drop the machete. At great personal risk to themselves the officers tackled the subject and after a brief struggle, they were able to disarm and subdue the man. As the result of the patient, bold and courageous actions which led to the unharmed apprehension of this individual, Trooper Michael Benevento, Trooper Michael Cashman, Officer Gregory Fortes and Officer Randal Stange were awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Valor.

MEDAL OF MERIT RECIPIENTS

The Medal of Merit was established to bestow recognition upon police personnel who have performed specific acts of outstanding achievement far exceeding normal demands of the Department, which greatly contribute to the operation of the Department. The recipients of this award were Trooper Joseph W. Masterson, Trooper Sean P. Maher and Trooper David J. Perreault.

Trooper Joseph W. Masterson, MSP

On June 21, 2004, while conducting an investigation in the City of Lawrence, Trooper Joseph W. Masterson overheard a radio transmission from the Lawrence Police Department regarding a shooting that had just occurred. Trooper Masterson went directly to the area of the shooting and spoke with a witness who provided a description of the suspected shooter. While Trooper Masterson was checking the area, he observed a subject who matched the description of the shooter hiding in some brush. Trooper Masterson exited his cruiser and was able to apprehend the subject, who was subsequently charged with murder.

On July 2, 2004, Trooper Masterson was in the North Andover during an ongoing search for a dangerous bank robbery suspect was underway. A radio transmission was made indicating that an RV camper had just been stolen in the general vicinity and possibly by this same suspect. The camper was spotted and Trooper Masterson took up a position in his unmarked vehicle. Trooper Masterson advised a local police officer and a utility crew that were set up in the same path that the camper was traveling of the impending arrival of the camper with the suspect. Trooper Masterson and the local officer were able to stop the camper and a felony stop was made. The suspect confessed to the robbery.

For his continuous display of outstanding initiative and dedication to duty, Trooper Joseph W. Masterson was awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Merit.

Trooper Sean P. Maher, MSP

On February 7, 2005, while on patrol, Trooper Sean P. Maher observed a vehicle with a questionable license plate and initiated a traffic stop. Trooper Maher requested identification from the vehicle's occupants. The front seat passenger claimed that he did not have any ID on his person. Due to the suspiciousness of the vehicle's occupants, Trooper Maher ran a check on all the occupants and discovered that two passengers were wanted for murders that had occurred earlier in the day. The victims of the murders had been robbed of both drugs and cash. Trooper Maher requested backup, and both subjects were taken into custody without incident.

For his attention to detail, which resulted in the apprehension of two extremely dangerous individuals, Trooper Sean P. Maher was awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Merit.

Trooper David J. Perreault, MSP

On January 13, 2005, Trooper Perreault responded to a call regarding a female walking in the middle of the eastbound lane of Route I-90. It was a rainy night, with limited visibility due to foggy conditions. When Trooper Perreault attempted to bring the woman to safety, she began to struggle with him. Trooper Perreault observed two tractor trailer units operating in the high-speed lane approaching them. Placing himself in jeopardy, he secured the woman in a bear-hug hold and leaned back against a barrier, pulling the woman out of danger as the two tractor trailers passed within inches of them. When Trooper Perreault released the woman, she tried to assault him with a knife. Trooper Perreault was eventually able to subdue the woman. She was subsequently transported to a local hospital for care and evaluation.

For his heroic actions, which put his life in danger and resulted in saving the life of another, Trooper David J. Perreault was awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Merit.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT

The Distinguished Service Award was established as the highest award to bestow recognition upon a civilian who has provided extraordinary assistance to the Department. The recipient of this award was Mr. Timothy J. Paquette of Auburn.

Mr. Timothy Paquette

On May 27, 2004, a small plane crashed in Fitchburg with two parties on-board. When Troopers arrived on scene, the plane was fully engulfed in flames and the occupants of the aircraft were located across the street, some 20 feet away, severely injured. It was later learned that Mr. Timothy Paquette saw the crash occur and ran over to the plane as fire broke out in the engine area. The pilot was trapped and the flames began to intensify, but Mr. Paquette prevailed in pulling the pilot out and away from the wreckage. Mr. Paquette then returned to the burning plane and was able to pull the passenger to safety, as well. Remarkably, Mr. Paquette was not burned or injured. Subsequently, the pilot and his passenger were transported by helicopter to UMass Medical Center for treatment.

For his extraordinary performance on May 27, 2004, which resulted in the lifesaving of two individuals, Mr. Timothy Paquette was awarded the Massachusetts State Police Distinguished Service Award.

MEDAL OF LIFESAVING RECIPIENTS

The Medal of Lifesaving was established to bestow recognition upon sworn police personnel who undertake significant actions in the saving of another life. The recipients of this award were Trooper Kevin J. Tenney, Trooper Brian C. Paquette, Trooper Kevin D. Emmett, Trooper Matthew G. Murphy, Trooper William J. Nee, Trooper Jeffery M. Lenti, Trooper Paul F. Gifford, Sgt. James F. Coakley (2), Trooper Ruben D. Colon, Trooper Curtis L. West, Trooper Louis C. Pappas, Trooper John F. Banik, Jr., Trooper Richard W. Watson, Granby Police Officer Michael F. Ulmer, Trooper Efrain Montanez, Lawrence Police Sgt. Daniel J. Fleming, Lawrence Police Officer Kevin G. Callahan, Lawrence Police Officer Pedro J. Lopez, Lawrence Police Officer Frank Bradley and Trooper James K. Crump

Trooper Kevin J. Tenney, MSP
 Trooper Brian C. Paquette, MSP

On December 24, 2004, troopers were dispatched to a report of a man collapsed in a lane near the Weston tollbooths on the Massachusetts Turnpike.

Trooper Kevin J. Tenney and Trooper Brian C. Paquette responded and observed an older male patron lying face down on the pavement. The victim had no pulse and was not breathing. Assuming that the victim had a heart attack, Trooper Tenney retrieved the AED device from his cruiser and Trooper Paquette got an ambu-bag and mask from his cruiser.

While the Troopers were attending to the victim, an off duty Firefighter/EMT, Nicholas J. Dadalt approached and offered his assistance. Trooper Paquette monitored the subject's vital signs, while Trooper. Tenney and Firefighter Dadalt continued CPR until the Paramedics from the local fire department arrived. The victim was stabilized and transported to a Boston Hospital, eventually recovering from this incident. If not for the quick actions of the Troopers and the Firefighter, this situation may have had a very different and tragic ending.

For their actions and quick response in the preservation of a life, Trooper Kevin J. Tenney, Trooper Brian C. Paquette are awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving.

Trooper Kevin D. Emmett, MSP

On July 12, 2003, Trooper Kevin Emmett responded to his neighbor's residence, as the next door neighbor had fallen in his yard and was unresponsive. Trooper Emmett quickly assessed the situation and initiated CPR until paramedics arrived on the scene to transport the victim to the hospital. The quick and decisive action of Trooper Emmett saved the life of this individual.

For his actions on July 12, 2003, which resulted in the preservation of a life, Trooper Emmett is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving.

Trooper William J. Nee, MSP
Trooper Matthew G. Murphy, MSP

On March 4, 2003, while working at Logan International Airport, Troopers received a report of a woman who was unconscious and not breathing on the sidewalk outside of a terminal. Upon arrival, Troopers observed a 77-year-old female on the ground and completely unresponsive. After a quick assessment of the situation, Trooper Nee performed rescue breathing on the woman, while Trooper Murphy performed chest compression, in an effort to save this woman's life. Troopers were able to re-establish the victim's pulse and breathing, while remaining calm and focused.

In recognition of their outstanding dedication and performance of duty, Trooper Matthew Murphy and Trooper William Nee are awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving award.

Trooper Jeffery M. Lenti, MSP

On August 6 th, 2004, Trooper Lenti was the first on-scene of a two car motor vehicle crash with a rollover in the city of Worcester. Upon arrival, Trooper Lenti quickly assessed the accident scene, which included the entrapment of a male subject who appeared to have head injuries. Trooper Lenti kept this individual calm, while controlling the bleeding from the open skull injury and maintaining an airway. Fire and Rescue extradited the driver from the overturned vehicle, and he was transported to UMass Medical Center. Paramedics later phoned State Police Barracks to report that because of Trooper Lenti's efforts, he saved this man's life.

For his dedication to duty which resulted in the preservation of another life, Trooper Jeffrey M. Lenti is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving award.

Trooper Paul F. Gifford, MSP

On June 16, 2004, a woman was in labor and about to give birth in the Route 93 Tunnel in Boston. While en route, Troopers were advised that the mother had just delivered, but the infant was not moving or breathing. Within two minutes, Trooper Gifford, who is a certified paramedic, arrived on scene and began emergency care of the infant and mother, pending the arrival of EMS personnel.

For his quick action, which resulted in the successful resuscitation of another life, Trooper Paul F. Gifford is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving award.

Sergeant James F. Coakley, MSP
Trooper Ruben D. Colon, MSP

On March 29, 2004, Trooper James J. Foley, while en route home from the State Police Academy, was involved in a multiple vehicle crash on the Massachusetts Turnpike. Trooper Foley was pinned inside of his cruiser, with flames shooting from the engine compartment. Sergeant Coakley and Trooper Colon immediately responded to the aid of Trooper Foley and were able to extinguish the fire before it reached him. Fire & Rescue and LifeFlight were dispatched to the scene. Throughout the lengthy, hour-long extrication process, both Sergeant Coakley and Trooper Colon tended to Trooper Foley. The Trooper Foley was ultimately flown to UMass Worcester, with multiple fractures to his leg and ribs.

For their dedication to duty resulting in the saving of the life of a fellow officer, Sergeant James F. Coakley and Trooper Ruben D. Colon are awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving award.

Sergeant James F. Coakley, MSP
Trooper Louis C. Pappas, MSP
Trooper John F. Banik, Jr., MSP

On May 10, 2004, Sergeant James F. Coakley, Trooper Luis C. Pappas and Trooper John F. Banik responded to a motor vehicle crash in the town of Sturbridge. Upon their arrival, they found two tractor trailer units heavily damaged, with smoke coming from both units. One operator was trapped and due to damage and debris was barely visible. Sergeant Coakley immediately summonsed fire and rescue personnel, while Sergeant Coakley, Trooper Pappas and Trooper Banik attempted to keep the fire at bay with fire extinguishers. Additionally, Trooper Banik administered medical attention to the victim until the rescue operation began.

These three officers were directly responsible for saving a life, by administering medical attention and keeping the fire at bay. Without their assistance, the operator would have surely perished, long before the fire and rescue personnel responded.

For their immediate response and diligent efforts which prevented the loss of a life, Sergeant James F. Coakley, Trooper Luis C. Pappas and Trooper John F. Banik, Jr., are awarded the Medal of Lifesaving.

Trooper Curtis L. West, MSP

On August 20, 2004, while traveling in Quincy, Trooper West was flagged down in front of a hair salon and was informed that a female inside of the salon was not breathing. Trooper West immediately exited his cruiser and entered the salon to render medical assistance. Upon evaluation of the female, Trooper West discovered that she had no pulse, was not breathing and was turning bluish in color. Trooper West immediately initiated one-man CPR. After a short time, a Quincy firefighter arrived and assisted Trooper West with two-man CPR, until paramedics arrived. At this time, the victim began breathing on her own and survived.

For Trooper West's significant actions which resulted in the preservation of another life, he is the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving.

Trooper James K. Crump, MSP

On February 7, 2005, Trooper James K. Crump was on a traffic detail at Logan International Airport, when his attention was directed to a man lying prone on the sidewalk. Trooper Crump approached the victim without hesitation and determined that the victim was not breathing and had no pulse. Trooper Crump prepared to begin CPR, as he was handed an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) machine. Trooper Crump activated the machine and the victim began breathing.

When the victim stopped breathing for a second time, Trooper Crump applied the AED machine until the victim exhibited signs of life. When Fire and Rescue personnel arrived on the scene, the victim was relinquished to their care.

For his immediate intervention and decisive action, resulting in the saving of a life, Trooper James K. Crump is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving.

Trooper Richard W. Watson, MSP
Officer Michael F. Ulmer, Granby PD

On September 7, 2004, Trooper Watson was administering a commercial driver licensing examination to a male subject. During the exam, the male had a heart attack and passed out inside the cab of the tractor trailer. Trooper Watson was unable to get any physical response from the man. He was not breathing and had no pulse.

Trooper Watson immediately instructed other individuals that were present, to activate EMS. Officer Michael Ulmer, an employee of the Massachusetts Highway Department and a part-time Granby police officer was also present at this time. CPR was immediately administered to the victim by Trooper Watson and Officer Ulmer. At this time, the victim began to breath on his own; however, he stopped breathing, again and had to be revived a second time. Shortly thereafter, EMTs arrived and took over the care of the victim.

For Trooper Watson's quick response, initiative and actions which resulted in the preservation of another life and for Officer Ulmer's assistance in rendering CPR, without hesitation, they are awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving Award.

Trooper Efrain Montanez, MSP
Sergeant Daniel J. Fleming, Lawrence PD
Officer Kevin G. Callahan, Lawrence PD
Officer Pedro J. Lopez, Lawrence PD
Officer Francis Bradley, Lawrence PD

On January 13, 2005, Trooper Efrain Montanez overheard a broadcast from the Lawrence Police Department regarding a distraught individual who was standing on the opposite side of the safety rail of the Central Bridge. A caller had reported that the individual was agitated and it appeared that he was going to jump.

Trooper Montanez arrived at the scene, along with Sergeant Daniel J. Fleming, Officer Kevin G. Callahan, Officer Pedro J. Lopez and Officer Francis Bradley of the Lawrence Police Department. Trooper Montanez approached the subject and immediately engaged him in conversation. The subject was irrational and threatening to jump, often taking one foot off of the ledge. While Trooper Montanez was engaging this subject in conversation, the Lawrence Police Department officers began to work themselves to a position closer to the subject. When the subject became distracted, these officers grabbed him - bending over the bridge railing in an awkward and dangerous position. The subject was then transported to the hospital for treatment.

The actions of these officers were nothing short of heroic. With little to no regard for their own safety, they acted quickly and professionally and brought this dangerous situation to a safe conclusion.

For their heroic actions which resulted in the preservation of a life, Trooper Efrain Montanez, Sergeant Daniel J. Fleming, Officer Kevin G. Callahan, Officer Pedro J. Lopez and Officer Francis Bradley are awarded the Massachusetts State Police Medal of Lifesaving.

LIFESAVING AWARD RECIPIENTS

The Lifesaving Award was established to bestow recognition upon civilian personnel who undertake significant actions in the saving of another life. The recipients of this award were Mr. Nicholas J. Dadalt of Sturbridge, Mr. James R. Forsythe of Milford, Mr. Richard M. Berdolotti of Greenville, Rhode Island, Mr. Robert L. Sisti, Jr. of North Providence, Rhode Island, Mr. Gary K. McNally of Seekonk, Mr. Paul L. MacArthur of Southboro and Mr. Joseph E. Toomey of North Dartmouth.

Mr. James R. Forsythe

On November 22, 2004, Dispatcher James R. Forsythe of the Mass. Turnpike Authority received a call from a distraught male who indicated that a fellow female student from Harvard University contacted him proclaiming her intent to commit suicide. The victim stated that she had taken 42 pills, but would not give her exact location. Dispatcher Forsythe contacted the Harvard University Police and Cambridge Police, while giving out a general broadcast to notify area patrols of the situation. The suicidal female was located on a bridge, incoherent and semi-conscious and immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment and observation.

Dispatcher Forsythe took control of this intense and dire situation, while maintaining a composed demeanor, thus, enabling the successful location of the victim.

For his quick response and skillful actions, which resulted in the preservation of a life, Dispatcher James R. Forsythe is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Lifesaving Award.

Mr. Richard M. Verdolotti
 Mr. Robert L. Sisti, Jr.

On August 2, 2004, Mr. Richard Verdelotti and Mr. Robert Sisti observed a motor vehicle on fire in a truck stop in Barnstable. Both men observed the operator the vehicle exit it on fire. Both men extinguished the fire with a blanket and fire extinguisher. The victim was then flown to Mass. General Hospital in critical condition.

Investigation later determined that the subject was attempting suicide by fire. Evidence of a flammable nature was recovered from the victim's clothing and vehicle. Mr. Verdelotti and Mr. Sisti reacted to this situation and placed themselves in great danger from the vehicle exploding. These men were able to extinguish the subject and move him to a safe area away from the vehicle, which was fully engulfed with flames.

For their heroic actions, risking their own lives to preserve the life of another human being, Mr. Richard Verdelotti and Mr. Robert Sisti are awarded the Massachusetts State Police Lifesaving award.

Mr. Gary K. McNally

On June 3, 2004, Gary McNally was employed by Boston Duck Tours and working as a Captain aboard a duck boat. While operating the duck boat on the Charles River, approaching the Longfellow Bridge, he observed a man in the water by the bridge support crying out for help. Mr. McNally radioed the State Police Marine section to advise them of the situation. Mr. McNally then navigated the boat towards the victim, who could apparently not swim, as his head would submerge as he violently struggled to stay afloat. Mr. McNally threw a life ring to the drowning victim, but being fatigued, the man could not grasp the ring.

Passengers aboard the duck boat began throwing personal flotation devices to the man, one of which landed on him. The man was able to grab onto it and hold his head above water. With assistance of passengers, Mr. McNally was able to retrieve the drowning man from the water. The man told Mr. McNally that his intention was suicide.

For his quick actions resulting in the preservation of life, Mr. Gary McNally is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Lifesaving Award.

Mr. Paul MacArthur, MTA

On April 25, 2004, Troopers were dispatched to a single vehicle crash on the Massachusetts Turnpike. Upon arrival, Troopers observed two males lying on the ground and another gentleman who was walking towards the cruiser. Mr. MacArthur, a Turnpike Authority employee, stated that he had removed both unconscious occupants from the vehicle after observing flames coming from underneath the hood. Mr. MacArthur then stated he doused the flames, after moving the vehicle's occupants to safety. It was later determined by the investigation that the driver of the crashed motor vehicle had, in fact, been drinking.

For Mr. Paul MacArthur's actions, which resulted in the preservation of two lives, he is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Lifesaving Award.

Mr. Joseph E. Toomey

On August 1, 2002, Mr. Joseph Toomey observed a vehicle strike a jersey barrier and then crash into a concrete cement bridge support. The vehicle caught fire and filled with black smoke with the operator trapped inside.

Mr. Joseph Toomey stopped to help and flagged down other passing vehicles to secure fire extinguishers in an attempt to put out the fire. The operator of the vehicle was extricated from the vehicle with the Jaws of Life and transported to a hospital with two broken legs.

For his quick response and decisive actions, which resulted in preventing more serious injuries or the loss of life, Mr. Toomey awarded the Massachusetts State Police Lifesaving Award .

Firefighter Nicholas J. Dadalt

On December 24, 2004, troopers were dispatched to a report of a man collapsed in a lane near the Weston tollbooths on the Massachusetts Turnpike.

Trooper Kevin J. Tenney and Trooper Brian C. Paquette responded and observed an older male patron lying face down on the pavement. The victim had no pulse and was not breathing. Assuming that the victim had a heart attack, Trooper Tenney retrieved the AED device from his cruiser and Trooper Paquette got an ambu-bag and mask from his cruiser.

While the Troopers were attending to the victim, an off duty Firefighter/EMT, Nicholas J. Dadalt approached them and offered his assistance. Trooper Paquette monitored the subject's vital signs, while Trooper. Tenney and Firefighter Dadalt continued CPR until the Paramedics from the local fire department arrived. The victim was stabilized and transported to a Boston Hospital, eventually recovering from this incident.

For his actions and quick response in the preservation of a life, Firefighter Nicholas J. Dadalt is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Lifesaving Award.

PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS

The Public Service Award was established to bestow recognition upon civilians who have provided outstanding assistance to the Department, or who have significantly contributed to public safety. The recipients of this award were Mrs. Nancy A. Hudson of Rockland, Mr. Joseph E. Kelly of Methuen and Mr. H. Robert Hawkes, Jr. of Rowley.

Mrs. Nancy A. Hudson

On June 10, 2004, while off duty, Sergeant Hudson and his wife Mrs. Nancy A. Hudson came upon a scene of a motor vehicle crash in Rockland, in which the occupant of the burning vehicle was trapped. Sergeant Hudson quickly assessed the situation and immediately retrieved a fire extinguisher from a nearby home. Placing himself in harm's way, Sergeant Hudson battled the flames bringing the fire under control, until the arrival of Rockland Fire Department. Mrs. Hudson comforted the victim as fire fighting and extrication efforts were under way.

If not for the heroic actions of Sergeant Hudson, the victim would have perished in the vehicle. As a result of these actions, the victim's family was allowed the opportunity to say their good-byes at his bedside, before the victim tragically succumbed to his injuries. For her extraordinary actions on June 10, 2004, Mrs. Hudson is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Public Service Award.

Mr. Joseph E. Kelly

Since 1997, Mr. Joseph E. Kelly has been the Program Coordinator for the 1033 Program in the Commonwealth. The 1033 Program, named after Section 1033 of the National Defense Authorization Act, authorizes the Secretary of Defense to transfer to various federal and state agencies, excess personal property for use by law enforcement agencies. Mr. Kelly has expanded this program in the Commonwealth to 215 agencies. The Department of State Police has benefited by receiving over $8 million in surplus military equipment, due to Mr. Kelly's participation in the program. For his successful implementation and coordination of the 1033 Program, Mr. Joseph E. Kelly is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Public Service Award.

Mr. H. Robert Hawkes

On July 1, 2004, a bank in Newburyport was robbed, in which the suspect had displayed a handgun and fled with approximately $10,000.00 in cash. After a pursuit involving State and local police, the truck crashed into the woods and the suspect fled on foot. An active search took place throughout that night and continued into the next day.

The next day, Trooper Karen E. Hawkes was flagged down by a man reporting to her that his RV camper was missing and that he last saw it about 30 minutes prior. Trooper Hawkes, knowing that her husband, Mr. H. Robert Hawkes, frequently traveled the local roads as part of his construction business, called him to ask him to keep his eyes out for the missing RV. Mr. Hawkes observed the camper travel by him in the opposite direction and turned around and began following the RV, while at the same time, reporting his location via cell phone to his wife. State and local police quickly put in place a plan to stop the vehicle, resulting in the arrest of and confession by the suspect of the armed robbery and stolen camper.

There is no doubt that the actions of Mr. Hawkes on that day contributed to the arrest of this dangerous individual. For his outstanding assistance to the Department, which significantly contributed to public safety, Mr. Robert Hawkes is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Public Service Award.

SUPERINTENDENT'S COMMENDATION RECIPIENT

The Superintendent's Commendation was established to bestow recognition upon any person who has made an exceptional contribution to the Massachusetts State Police. Sgt. Kenneth J. Hudson was awarded the Superintendent's Commendation.

Sergeant Kenneth J. Hudson, Jr.

On June 10, 2004, while off duty, Sergeant Hudson and his wife came upon a scene of a motor vehicle crash in Rockland, in which the occupant of the burning vehicle was trapped. Sergeant Hudson quickly assessed the situation and immediately retrieved a fire extinguisher from a nearby home. Placing himself in harm's way, Sergeant Hudson battled the flames bringing the fire under control, until the arrival of Rockland Fire Department. Mrs. Hudson comforted the victim as fire fighting and extrication efforts were under way.

If not for the heroic actions of Sergeant Hudson, the victim would have perished in the vehicle. As a result of these actions, the victim's family was allowed the opportunity to say their good-byes at his bedside, before the victim tragically succumbed to his injuries. For his extraordinary performance on June 10, 2004, Sergeant Hudson is awarded the Massachusetts State Police Superintendent's Commendation.