Public Safety Awards

Acworth Police Department

Over his 34 years in public service, beginning as a corrections officer in 1991 and joining the Acworth Police Department in 2000, Lieutenant Brian Hunt has exemplified sustained volunteerism, civic engagement, and unwavering dedication to the Acworth community. A dependable and compassionate leader, he has mentored fellow officers, fostered trust with residents, and demonstrated a rare blend of humility, initiative, and civic pride.

Beyond his official duties, Lieutenant Hunt has been a driving force behind the Acworth Police Community Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting families in need, promoting public safety education, and strengthening community–police relations. His leadership was instrumental in organizing the Foundation’s inaugural Golf Tournament in April 2025, an event that raised over $22,000 to fund emergency assistance for families, youth mentorship programs, and community-building initiatives. This achievement not only provided immediate resources but also established the tournament as a cornerstone fundraising event for the Foundation’s future work.

Lieutenant Hunt’s volunteerism reflects a genuine commitment to the well-being and cohesion of Acworth. His efforts have resulted in tangible improvements in quality of life for residents, strengthened trust between public safety professionals and the public, and inspired others to serve.

Cobb County Department of Public Safety

As a Fiscal Technician, Deedra Watts exemplifies professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to service beyond her administrative role. She consistently steps forward to lead special projects that uplift the community, foster connection, and support Cobb County’s most vulnerable.

In 2024, Mrs. Watts revived the Make-A-Wish 5K after a five-year pause, turning it into a symbol of unity and resilience. She led every aspect—organizing vendors, rallying volunteers, and engaging public safety and local businesses. Her leadership helped raise $40,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, granting life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses. The event brought together over 500 participants and created lasting bonds among families, first responders, and the broader community.

A powerful reflection of Mrs. Watts’ character was her effort to fulfill a dream for Arya, a 10-year-old cancer survivor who wanted to be a police officer. She coordinated a multi-agency collaboration to give Arya an unforgettable experience, complete with a police escort and an honorary swearing-in ceremony. The event brought together first responders and community members in a powerful moment of healing and joy. Her compassion turned one child’s wish into a lasting symbol of empathy, public trust, and the impact of selfless service. Whether organizing major events or quietly helping others, Mrs. Watts leads with integrity, truly embodying the values of an outstanding citizen.

Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services

Engineer Shane Dorfman exemplifies the spirit of service through his unwavering dedication to others, both within Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services and the broader community. In April 2024, during his personal time, Shane organized and sponsored the “Stick It to Cancer” hockey game, a fundraiser to raise cancer awareness and support fellow firefighter Captain Drew Dunn. Combining his passion for hockey and his love for the fire service, Shane led a successful effort that brought people together to uplift one of their own.

The recent event for Captain Dunn marked the 10th “Stick It to Cancer” fundraiser Shane has sponsored. Over the years, his efforts have supported numerous CCFES personnel, including Brad Blakeney, Nathan Sahlburg, Javier Nanez, Ken McGuire, and the daughter of Toto Singheimer. Shane’s commitment has also extended beyond CCFES, organizing fundraisers to assist an officer with the Marietta Police Department, Roswell Fire Department’s Gordon Decker, and partnering with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta for their annual Christmas cancer ward fundraiser. In addition, he coordinated the “Pucks for Patty” event in support of APD officer Pat Apoin, further demonstrating his dedication to helping those in need across the public safety community.

Shane’s actions reflect true selflessness and the core values of Cobb County—respect, commitment, and honor. He answers the call without hesitation, bringing hope and light during the most trying times.

Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services

On December 7, 2024, Probationary Firefighter Jake Rogers was working on Engine 24 when he and his crew responded to a reported house fire. Upon arrival, they found heavy smoke pouring from the front door and visible flames coming from a basement window. As Firefighter Rogers advanced a hose line toward the home, he was told by a woman that her husband was still inside the home, and he was bedridden.

Though new to the job, Rogers immediately relied on his training. He alerted his officer of the reported victim and entered the home to search the floor above the fire. With zero visibility and heavy smoke conditions, he crawled through the home, calling out for the victim. When he heard a voice respond, he quickly located the man and carried him out of the burning structure to safety.

FF Rogers’ quick thinking and bravery exemplify the courage and commitment of a Cobb County Firefighter. His selfless actions that day undoubtedly saved a life and reflected the highest standards of service and dedication.

Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services

Lieutenant Logan Tucker exemplifies the highest standards of leadership, professionalism, and compassion in service. As the company officer for Cobb County’s second busiest engine and busiest rescue unit, Lt. Tucker leads by example—ensuring operational excellence while fostering a culture of learning, teamwork, and resilience.

Known for his unwavering positivity and care for his crew, Lt. Tucker consistently prioritizes their well-being, both on and off duty. He strengthens camaraderie through team-building activities and supports morale through meaningful connections.

Beyond daily operations, Lt. Tucker plays a critical role in the recruit academy, designing and leading essential fire suppression training. He also contributes to the nationally recognized Metro Atlanta Firefighter Conference, helping firefighters across the country elevate their skills.

Lt. Tucker leads by example, arriving an hour early to work to ensure he is fully prepared for the day. He conducts training, promotes fitness, and ensures his crew is ready for the demands of emergency response. His commitment also extends to the community, leading initiatives like the Station 30A Christmas donation program, identifying families in need and delivering holiday support.

His commitment to leaving Station 30 better than he found it has transformed it into a stronger, more cohesive team altogether.

Cobb County Police Department

In January 2025, Field Training Officer Stephen Abernathy demonstrated outstanding initiative and investigative skill during two major incidents in Cobb County. Following the placement of an improvised explosive device at a local bank, FTO Abernathy—though not originally assigned to the call—proactively reviewed surveillance and identified a suspect vehicle. His timely lead resulted in the arrest of the suspect, who was found with additional explosive materials.

Later that month, FTO Abernathy responded to a homicide scene and again took initiative by canvassing local businesses for video footage. His efforts led to identifying a suspect and providing investigators with a critical lead that resulted in an arrest.

Beyond his investigative work, FTO Abernathy plays a vital role in mentoring the department’s next generation as a Field Training Officer. He also serves as a senior member of the Cobb County Police Honor Guard, dedicating countless hours to representing the department at funerals and ceremonies with professionalism and compassion.

FTO Abernathy exemplifies the values of hard work, integrity, and leadership, and reflects great credit to Precinct Two and the Cobb County Police Department.

Cobb County Police Department

On December 5, 2024, Officer Rahim Somani displayed extraordinary courage and selflessness while off duty. Driving home from his shift at Precinct 4, he came upon a multi-vehicle crash on I-285. One vehicle was already engulfed in flames, and a man was trapped inside—bleeding, disoriented, and pinned beneath the dashboard.

Recognizing the urgency, Officer Somani immediately sprang into action. With flames quickly approaching the victim, he forced the vehicle door open and climbed inside. Disregarding his own safety, he worked quickly to free the man’s legs. Despite the intense heat and danger, Somani remained focused. After a brief struggle, he successfully extricated the injured driver—later found to have suffered broken legs—and carried him to safety.

Moments later, the vehicle was completely consumed by fire.

Officer Somani’s bravery and decisive action undoubtedly saved the man’s life. His conduct reflects the highest ideals of law enforcement and public service. His heroic efforts that night serve as a powerful reminder of the selfless commitment officers make both on and off duty.

Flynn Broady, Jr. has long championed collaborative solutions for public safety. His ability to work across departments, agencies, and disciplines has been critical in building sustainable public safety strategies. Whether coordinating with the judiciary, law enforcement, social services, or nonprofit organizations, Flynn brings people together to solve complex problems and serve vulnerable
populations.

Kennesaw State University Department of Public Safety

As Captain with the Kennesaw State University Police Departments Special Operations Division and with 30 years in law enforcement, Captain Murphy has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.

Throughout the past year, Captain Murphy has gone above and beyond in his role, taking on critical responsibilities with poise and skill. Whether responding to high-pressure emergency situations, collaborating with other departments, or mentoring new team members, Captain Murphy exemplifies the highest standards of public service.

One of the most impressive aspects of Captain Tim Murphy’s work is the Mobile Field Force (MFF) training he organizes for other police departments and sheriff’s offices. The training topics include field force/public order operations, extrication, command, less-lethal, chemical munitions, equipment and more. He leads instruction on field force and public order operations, extrication, command, less-lethal options, chemical munitions, and specialized equipment. Under his leadership, KSU PD regularly partners with agencies like the Georgia Army National Guard to conduct large-scale readiness exercises, ensuring officers are prepared to manage crowds safely while protecting constitutional rights. His expertise and contributions to interagency preparedness were recognized with the Georgia Commendation Medal, highlighting his leadership in advancing both campus and regional public safety.

Marietta Fire Department

Assistant Chief Brian Rutledge is a 22-year veteran of the Marietta Fire Department and currently serves as A-Shift Commander. Throughout his career, he has contributed to multiple specialties including hazardous materials response, technical rescue training, management of the Air Lab, and Paramedic certification. Promoted in 2024, he now oversees suppression operations across six stations and 35 firefighters, demonstrating exceptional leadership, empathy, and command presence in emergency situations.

His heart of service extends not only to the Citizens of Marietta but also to the men and women of The Marietta Fire Department. Chief Rutledge is deeply committed to firefighter development and recognition. He authored and maintains the department’s Career Development Manual and created a leadership coin and appreciation letter program to honor outstanding performance. These initiatives help build morale, encourage excellence, and support firefighter retention.

In 2021, Brian co-founded the Marietta Fire Fighters Support Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to assisting department members. Under his leadership, the revitalized Marietta Firefighters Scholarship Fund has awarded more than $20,000 in scholarships since 2024, supported by the annual J.W. Fellabaum Golf Classic.

Selected for the 2026 Leadership Cobb class, Chief Rutledge continues to lead with integrity, service, and dedication, impacting both the fire department and the Marietta community he proudly serves.

Marietta Police Department

Officer Joshua Adams is a 14-year veteran of the Marietta Police Department whose service is defined by compassion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to community. He has dedicated much of his career to mentoring youth through the Marietta Police Athletic League (PAL), serving as assistant boxing coach, mentor, lead teacher, and facilitator for the “Boys to Men” program. His leadership has transformed PAL into a trusted space where young people build discipline, self-worth, and life skills. Perhaps the most powerful testament to his impact is how students recall their first connection to PAL: “Officer Adams told me to come.” His genuine care, consistent presence, and honest communication have turned simple recruitment into meaningful outreach—and that outreach into lasting, life-changing connections.

Officer Adams also helped launch Marietta’s Co-Responder Program, pairing law enforcement with behavioral health professionals to respond to mental health crises. His efforts reduced use-of-force incidents, improved follow-up care, and strengthened community trust.

Currently serving as the School Resource Officer at Marietta Middle School, he continues to model empathy, patience, and integrity in daily interactions with students. Across every role, Officer Adams is recognized as a bridge between law enforcement and the community—one who leads with heart, builds lasting relationships, and inspires change. His work has increased youth engagement, improved outcomes for families, and set a powerful example of what it means to truly serve.

Marietta Police Department

On February 22, 2025, Officer Foster exemplified extraordinary courage and life-saving skill while responding to a 911 call reporting cries for help near some apartments in Marietta. Arriving first on scene, he located the source of the call deep in the woods—an injured man stranded across a freezing lake, suffering from a leg fracture and hypothermia after jumping from a balcony to escape an armed attacker.

Recognizing the urgency and danger, Officer Foster crossed dense brush, freezing temperatures, and a barbed-wire fence to reach the victim. He found the man immobilized, bleeding heavily, and already showing signs of the lethal triad—hypothermia, hemorrhage, and impending shock. Without hesitation, Officer Foster applied a tourniquet, stopped the bleeding, and relayed the victim’s exact location to dispatch, enabling emergency responders to arrive swiftly.

His calm, decisive actions interrupted a fatal physiological spiral and ultimately saved the victim’s life. Officer Foster’s bravery, medical readiness, and selfless service in extreme conditions reflect the highest ideals of public safety and embody the very essence of valor.

MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service

On May 16, 2025, Paramedic Cheree Curtis responded to a call for a patient with serious foot wounds who adamantly refused transport to the hospital. Despite clear explanations of the risks—untreated infection, potential gangrene, even death—the patient remained firm in her refusal. After 32 minutes of conversation, Cheree honored the refusal but informed the patient she would be referring her to the Cobb CARES program for follow-up. Recognizing that traditional efforts had failed, Cheree took the extra step to ensure this patient wouldn’t be forgotten. She collaborated with fire personnel and submitted a detailed email, urging CARES to intervene. Thanks to her persistence, the CARES team visited the patient the very same day. It took four visits to build trust, but by May 30, the patient underwent a life-saving amputation and began recovery.

Cheree’s actions went far beyond protocol. While she had no obligation to initiate continued care, her compassion and determination ensured this patient didn’t fall through the cracks. In a profession often challenged by burnout, Cheree’s commitment to patient advocacy stands as a shining example of what it means to truly serve with heart.

Powder Springs Police Department

Lieutenant Armando Cipriano is an outstanding leader whose dedication, vision, and integrity have left a lasting mark on the Powder Springs Police Department and the community it serves. Throughout his career, he has advanced officer recruitment, strengthened community partnerships, and fostered a positive, high-performing agency culture.

His innovative recruitment strategies have significantly increased the department’s ability to attract and retain qualified officers, ensuring effective public safety services. A skilled leader in both routine operations and critical incidents, Lt. Cipriano is known for decisive action and unwavering fairness. His vigilance has led to life-changing outcomes, including rescuing a neglected child from a vehicle in 2024 and reuniting a lost elderly woman with her family in 2025.

Beyond operations, he mentors countless officers, promotes professional growth, and champions collaboration across agencies to address crime prevention and outreach. His ability to build trust, de-escalate tense situations, and inspire excellence has earned the respect of colleagues and citizens alike.

Lt. Cipriano’s service exemplifies the highest ideals of law enforcement—leadership, compassion, and an unyielding commitment to protecting and uplifting the community.

Powder Springs Police Department

Officer Paul Philpot is a dedicated public safety professional whose leadership, initiative, and unwavering commitment have made a profound impact on his department and community. Serving in the Crime Suppression Unit, he has played a vital role in reducing crime, often going beyond his assigned duties and volunteering during staffing shortages to ensure public safety.

As leader of the Cadet Explorer program, Officer Philpot mentors teens and young adults, shaping future leaders by instilling responsibility, civic pride, and essential life skills. His guidance has inspired countless youth and strengthened community connections.

In his role as a Field Training Officer, he sets the standard for new recruits, providing expert instruction, patient mentorship, and a commitment to excellence that prepares officers for the challenges of the field. His innovative approach keeps training and youth programs engaging, relevant, and impactful.

From lifesaving actions—such as administering CPR to save a resident—to fostering morale and teamwork, Officer Philpot exemplifies the highest ideals of law enforcement: service, leadership, and compassion. His tireless efforts have left a lasting mark on the community and the profession.

Puckett EMS

Adam Madison has dedicated over 20 years to excellence in the EMS field. As a Level 3 Education Instructor, he taught one of Georgia’s first AEMT classes, achieving a 90% success rate. Adam is highly skilled in paramedicine and proficient with critical care equipment such as various ventilators, high-flow oxygen systems, and medication pumps.

He is a strong patient advocate, quickly assessing needs and delivering timely, life-saving interventions. Throughout his career, Adam has delivered seven babies—including twins—and responded to 37 cardiac arrests within six months. He consistently recognizes critical conditions like STEMIs, recently activating a cath lab that led to patient reperfusion in just 77 minutes.

Adam has demonstrated remarkable courage by risking his own safety in dangerous situations, including disarming a suicidal patient and assisting gunshot victims amid active shooter threats.

In addition to his medical expertise, Adam excels in EMS operations with top Unit Hour Utilization and serves as a dedicated mentor. During the COVID pandemic, his commitment to teaching and leadership played a crucial role in sustaining and inspiring the next generation of EMS professionals.

Smyrna Fire Department

Lieutenant Jody Collis has served 21 years of distinguished service as a paramedic and firefighter, exemplifying leadership, dedication, and professional excellence within the Smyrna Fire Department. His expertise includes technical rescue, extrication, hazmat, and incident command, making him an essential leader in advancing public safety.

He has played a key role in critical initiatives, including the Apparatus and Equipment Committee and the Joint High-Rise Committee, collaborating with Whitfield Academy to enhance incident response and safety. Lieutenant Collis has modernized high-rise operations and technical rescue programs, significantly improving the department’s preparedness for complex emergencies.

His strategic contributions extend to EMS training, apparatus planning—including consultation with Pierce Manufacturing—and the introduction of new equipment, all boosting safety and efficiency. A committed mentor and instructor, he leads vital training programs such as Active Attack Integrated Response (AAIR) and developed in-house firefighting foam training after research in Texas.

Known for exceptional leadership under pressure, Lieutenant Collis has earned the deep trust of colleagues. His innovative spirit and tireless commitment continue to strengthen the department and serve the community with courage and compassion.