Newtown Police Department conducted its awards and decorations ceremony to honor the actions of its officers on October 21.

Police Chief James Viadero said it had been two years since the department last conducted an awards ceremony.

“This is a good way to recognize our officers for their service and for doing a good job, and for the public to see some of the events the officers went through,” said Viadero. “I’m extremely proud of this department and its officers and this exemplifies all their hard work.”

Among those honored were Lieutenant William Keegan, for the Anita Goosman Memorial Award; Officer Frank Piazza received an Education Award (Bachelor’s); Officers Peter Wiasuk and Adam James received an Education Award (Master’s); Officer Hugo Rojas received a Military Award (Marine Corps); and Officer Paula Wickman received two Certificates of Commendation.

Also, Officer William Chapman, Officer Matthew Hayes, Lieutenant Aaron Bahamonde, Sergeant Scott Smith, Detective Jason Frank, Detective Dan McAnaspie, Officer Michael McGowan, Officer John McClusky, Officer Stephanie McDermott, Officer Julio Tardim, and Officer Adam James each received a Certificate of Commendation; Officer Jason Flynn, Sergeant Scott Ruszczyk, and Lieutenant David Kullgren each received Commissioners Service Awards; Officer Adam Greco and School Resource Officer Richard Monckton received Awards for Merit; Officer Charles Guernsey received the Life Saving Award and Sergeant Liam Seabrook received the Law Enforcement Excellence Award.

“A number of awards were give out for the many extraordinary accomplishments by the men and women of our police department,” said Police Commission Chairman Joel Faxon. “It was great to have everyone together and be able to recognize the important work that often goes completely unrecognized, but is very worthy of commendation.”

Faxon said the police commission was “so proud of everything” the police department does every day “to support the community and make it safer.” He said the awards ceremony was well attended and had food supplied by Marketplace. He also said he hopes the ceremony will once again become an annual event, “minus any intervening force.”

“Our police need the recognition they greatly deserve,” Faxon said.

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Reporter Jim Taylor can be reached at jim@thebee.com.