Awards and Recognition

Officer Commendation Form

The Paducah Police Department strives to improve the quality of services provided, promote a high level of public confidence, and enhance and maintain the professional integrity of the Department and its members. Officers seek to serve the community with pride and professionalism with the ultimate goal of exceeding the public’s standards by providing outstanding service. If you would like to recognize an officer for outstanding performance, please complete the Officer Commendation Form.

Awards and Recognition Recipients

In 2010 the Paducah Police Department started a new tradition by presenting its first-ever Awards Ceremony. The ceremony honors officers and civilians who have risen above their routine duties and responsibilities and provided exceptional service to the department and the citizens of Paducah. Recent awards recipients are listed below.

2023 Awards and Recognition Recipients
2022 Awards and Recognition Recipients
2021-2022 Awards and Recognition Recipients
2020-2021 Awards and Recognition Recipients
2019-2020 Awards and Recognition Recipients
2018-2019 Awards and Recognition Recipients

Available Awards and Judging Criteria (in order of rank)

Medal of Honor	Individual act of heroism by the employee At imminent personal hazard to the life of the employee With knowledge of the risks involved
Meritorious Service Award	A highly unusual accomplishment by the employee Under highly adverse conditions and with some degree of hazard to the life and safety of the employee Where death or injury to another is prevented
Life Saving Award	For the act of saving/prolonging the life of another Through prompt and alert action of the employee With some degree of hazard to the life and safety of the employee
The Chief's Award & Special Awards (Employee of the Quarter/Employee of the Year and the Gary L. Reese Award)	For an exceptionally high degree of dedication and professionalism by the employee That shows a continuing commitment to the department Sets superior standards for fellow employees to follow
Service Commendation	For performance "above and beyond" that required by the employee's regular work assignment Or exceptional skill and conduct during a coordinated action That is characterized by self-sacrifice while facing personal danger Or exceptional investigative work that brings recognition to the employee and the department
Armed Services Award	Having served or currently serving with any branch of the United States Armed Services included the United States Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. (National Guard and Reserve Units are inclusive under their respective branches) Having provided proof of Honorable Discharge (DD214) or current service documentation to the Chief of Police or his/her designee
Education Achievement Award	Having attained an Associate Degree or 65 or more credits of college study Having provided proof of credits to the Chief of Police or his/her designee
Administrative Commendation	For the submission to the department of a device or method adopted by the department to increase efficiency in administration or tactical procedures or for an innovative and successful program in the area of community affairs
Citizen Service Award	For the performance of an outstanding act or service by a citizen that contributes to the saving of a human life or substantially aids a police officer in the performance of his/her duties
Safe Driving Award	Designed to recognize officers who have demonstrated exceptional skill and judgment while driving a police vehicle by having no at-fault collisions, as determined by the Awards Committee, at five-year increments – five, 10, 15 and 20 years.