JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- A Southeast Missouri trooper was among 17 first responders across the state honored earlier last week by Gov. Mike Parson for their exemplary service.
Trooper Ryan Windham, a two-year veteran of the Missouri State Highway Patrol and a Dexter native, received a Missouri Public Safety Medal of Merit from the governor.
Windham was recognized for his "brave actions above and beyond the call of normal duty that played a critical role in successfully resolving a situation that endangered public safety."
"They contacted me about two months ago and gave me the heads up that I got the award and congratulated me," Windham said. "I was definitely shocked and surprised by that. ...
"It was an honor to get to meet the governor and get an award presented by him."
The honor also gave Windham a chance to interact with Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten, who recently retired as the patrol's superintendent.
"It was great getting to interact with her again and also the other award recipients and hear their stories," Windham said.
Windham, who earlier this year received a meritorious service award from the patrol, was recognized again for his actions on March 6, 2017.
On that day, according to a press release from the governor's office, Windham was on routine patrol southbound on Interstate 57 in Mississippi County when he saw a car without a front license plate.
After Windham activated his emergency equipment to stop the vehicle, the driver failed to yield and a pursuit ensued.
The vehicle reportedly exited the highway and made a couple of turns before sliding off the road and coming to a stop in New Madrid County.
As Windham approached the stopped vehicle, the front-seat passenger fled on foot.
The back-seat passenger got out and began firing a handgun at Windham, who returned fire and moved toward the rear of his patrol car for cover.
The suspect reportedly fired at least six rounds, three of which struck Windham's vehicle, including one that hit the vehicle's spotlight, directly in front of Windham.
A manhunt subsequently ensued and all three occupants were taken into custody without incident. All reportedly were convicted felons and members of a violent gang with outstanding warrants for their arrests.
"Trooper Windham's attention to detail and bravery under fire resulted in the apprehension of these violent offenders," the release further said.
"You don't do this job for awards," Windham said. "You do it to help people and make the community you live in and raise a family in safer."
Windham said there are so many other officers in situations who "do the right thing" and make their community safer, but "don't get recognized" for their actions.