RALEIGH – The State Highway Patrol recognized extraordinary acts of bravery and public service by sworn and civilian state employees during an awards ceremony held at the SBI Auditorium in Raleigh this morning. Each of the recipients recognized today exemplify the true definition of being a public servant and reflect the Patrol’s core values of integrity, professionalism and loyalty.  

Steven Dail, from District C5 (Greene and Wilson Counties) was awarded the Collision Reduction Award.

Joshua Lewis, from District A7 (Lenoir and Jones Counties) was awarded the Sarmitan Group Award.

Opening remarks were provided by Major W. P. Moore II and an invocation was administered by Patrol Chaplain Byron Murray.  Department of Public Safety Secretary Eddie M. Buffaloe Jr. served as guest speaker and provided moving remarks commending the award recipients on their positive impacts on others.  Colonel Freddy L. Johnson Jr., commander of the State Highway Patrol, also provided remarks in support of those receiving an award.

“This ceremony allows us to publicly recognize what the true nature of being a public servant is; our work puts us in situations to go above and beyond, but to answer a calling into public service also demands the willingness and knowhow to go above and beyond and that’s what you have done,” said Colonel Johnson. “I do not believe we are here today by chance or that your actions should be considered routine, you are heroes and are very much appreciated.”

A list identifying award recipients, their received award and the members assigned duty station can be found attached.