De Pere community groups bestow awards for outstanding police, fire staff

DE PERE – Nine civic clubs within the City of De Pere honored the brave, skillful, and compassionate service of their public safety servants on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, during their annual "Beyond the Call & Outstanding Public Safety Member Recognition" banquet.

Among the 2023 award recipients was a police officer who helped bring a sense of justice and closure to a local family reeling from the tragic drug-related death.

Also honored was a Fire Rescue staff member who has helped create and strengthen integral community partnerships and events for her department.

Lea Taylor Recognized as Outstanding Member of De Pere Fire Rescue

This year, Lea Taylor was recognized by De Pere Fire Rescue (DPFR) as its "Outstanding Member." The nomination, submitted by Lee Meyers and Randy Hansen on behalf of the civic clubs of De Pere, highlighted Taylor's remarkable commitment and contributions. They said her unwavering commitment and kindness have been a pillar within the DPFR team and the community.

During her tenure with DPFR, Taylor has played a pivotal role in organizing the annual award ceremony and has showcased meticulous attention to detail, enthusiasm, and professionalism in planning this event and many other signature programs for her department. This includes an annual holiday gift-giving program, where Taylor works with local school districts to identify families in need.

Her efforts, from soliciting donations to personally wrapping each gift, culminate in a fire truck delivery with Santa to bring joy and comfort to countless individuals in the community.

In addition to these planning and coordinating responsibilities, Taylor has shown remarkable dedication to the DPFR therapy dog program, particularly in training and caring for Stanley, who has become a cherished and valuable asset to the department. Through countless hours of devotion, Taylor has ensured that Stanley is well-trained, well-behaved, and ready to provide comfort and support to those in need.

Detective Sergeant Aaron Hanson Receives Beyond The Call Award from De Pere Police Department

The De Pere Police Department (DPPD) proudly presented Detective Sergeant Aaron Hanson with the Beyond The Call Award for 2023. The award, given for extraordinary dedication and service, came through a nomination from the family of John "Jack" McDonough, who tragically passed away from an acute fentanyl intoxication on Dec. 3, 2022.

Detective Sergeant Hanson took charge of the investigation, displaying exceptional dedication and persistence in uncovering the circumstances surrounding McDonough's death. Despite the challenges posed by the suspected fentanyl overdose, family members of McDonough said Detective Sergeant Hanson went above and beyond his duty to identify and apprehend the individual responsible for providing the lethal dose.

These actions not only provided a measure of justice for McDonough and his family, but also played a crucial role in preventing further harm to the community. In an emotional moment at the awards banquet, Detective Sergeant Aaron Hanson shared an embrace with McDonough's family members.

The family noted that Hanson's commitment to justice and caring nature are not only an asset to De Pere, but his dedication to the well-being of the community exemplifies the qualities deserving of the Beyond The Call Award.

###