It has been a decade in the making, but, at last, hundreds of Lakewood police officers and their proud relatives gathered Sunday at the historic Strand Theater on Clifton Avenue to celebrate the greatest heroes amongst us.
Dozens of police officers were given awards for heroism, bravery and exemplary law enforcement performance during the course of their work over the past decade. These included officers who encountered great dangers – in the form of armed suspects; raging fires, and the like – and bravely saved lives and protected the public. Officers were also recognized for their exemplary work in combatting dangers such as drug use and DUI.
A special poignant tribute was made to the late Lakewood Police Captain Joseph Goertz, who passed away in 2021 following health complications related to his police work during the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, the Lakewood Police Department as a whole was commended for its professional and lifesaving performance during the pandemic, during which the historic dangers and fast-changing facts on the ground were extremely complex.
Chief Greg Meyer swore in several police officers who were promoted to higher positions within the Department: Lieutenant Kevin Martin; Sergeant David Arey; Sergeant Michael Cavallo; Sergeant Michael Dennis Jr.; and Sergeant Charles Messer.
“We honored the men and women of the Lakewood Police Department – including community policing; detectives; Traffic and Safety; communications; and EMS personnel – who went above and beyond the call for duty performing heroic and lifesaving acts, often without regard for their own safety,” says Chief Meyer. “It was a day filled with pride and respect for those officers. I am proud to lead such men and women.”
Chief Meyer also thanked the Lakewood Township Committee for their consistent, unwavering support for the Department and its officers.
Lakewood Township Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein heralded the commitment and bravery of both the Department’s officers and their family members who send their loved ones off to work each day, knowing the inherent dangers of the job.
“You are our family and we have your back,” Committeeman Lichtenstein exclaimed to thunderous applause. “The Committee will always be there to support you and provide you with the equipment, protective gear and training you need as you faithfully serve and protect the people of Lakewood.”
