Out of more than 5,000 Veterans Affairs law enforcement officers, Lead Officer Paul Hicks of the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center was selected for the national VA Lead Officer of the Year. Only two nationally receive the distinction each year.
Acting Director of the Veterans Health Administration Law Enforcement Jose Gonzalez and Director of Police Services Edward Dubois traveled all the way from Washington, D.C. to present the honor to Hicks.
The two federal officials clarified the ceremony is typically conducted in the nation’s capital. However, the pair said the presentations are always more rewarding when done in the honoree’s hometown.
“It’s quite exceptional,” Gonzalez emphasized.
VA Chief of Police Tony Rivera highlighted the fact this is a national as opposed to a regional or local award.
“We are recognizing one of our top guys,” he added.
Dubois said the pool of nominees is always highly competitive and it is rare for an individual to be given this honor.
“That is a very good distinction,” he affirmed.
Interim Medical Care Director Fabian Grabski commented the turnout for the ceremony was exceptional.
“We’re a family,” he shared.
“Words cannot describe the pride I’m feeling to accept this award in Poplar Bluff,” Hicks expressed, “I didn’t do it alone.”
He said collaboration, the officers surrounding him, and his family are critical to his success.
“I’m proud of the teamwork here,” Hicks stated.
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