06/03/2026
Today Balto and I were honored in receiving the 2026 Illinois Juvenile Officers Association Initiative of the Year Award. I would like to take just a brief minute to give credit and thanks where it’s due.
First to my command staff. Thank you for your continued support in all of my endeavors. To have the opportunity to have this program is way more than some other officers get, and I can’t thank you enough for your willingness and trust.
To my family. Your unwavering support especially when dealing with the not so fun parts makes everything easier. Your helpfulness eases my burden, especially while juggling a tough job with a teenager dog that doesn’t always listen well. Thank you does not even cover what I wish to express to you.
Officer Brian Zebron. Your guidance and mentorship of me for the last 8 years has helped shape me to be the officer that I am today. It started with a dual purpose K-9 to now when it’s a therapy dog primarily in a school setting, and everything in between. I would not be half the officer I am if it weren’t for you. The opportunities that you have provided as well as the knowledge that you have imparted to me can never be repaid nor will it ever be forgotten.
Lastly to Balto. Calling you a good dog pales in comparison to how awesome you truly are. You learn with such ease that it makes me look like a veteran trainer and you act like a dog well beyond your years. You truly are one of a kind and I can’t wait to see how you grow to be an irreplaceable fixture of the community. I would not have received this award without you, not you without me and thank you does not mean anything to you, so here’s to extra belly scratches and more time playing with your ball.
