Kiwanis presents awards to the area’s top public servants

http://www.gainesvilletimes.com/news/article/26145/

GAINESVILLE, GA - Their titles may vary, but they still have a few things in common: a strong work ethic, a love for service and the drive to go above the call of duty.

During its regular meeting, the Gainesville Kiwanis Club recognized these individuals and presented them with the John W. Jacobs Sr. Memorial Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement. The presentation has become an annual tradition.

"(It) started about 13 years ago as a way for the Gainesville Kiwanis to recognize our local law enforcement," said Ricky Rich, Governor's Office of Highway Safety division director of special operations.

Gainesville Police Department Investigator Daniel Schrader, Hall County Sheriff's Deputy Anna Marisa Smith, Georgia State Patrol Trooper First Class Brodie Forrester and Georgia DNR Law Enforcement Division Sgt. Mike Burgamy each received the award.

Each of the recipients were introduced by a representative from their respective departments. Among other things, Forrester was nominated because he currently holds the department record in felony and misdemeanor drug arrests.

Smith was nominated for the heroics she displayed in the line of duty while responding to an emergency call. During a recent call to a house fire, Smith was credited with being a lifesaver by entering a smoke-filled mobile home and carrying out a mother of two.

During the ceremony, Burgamy became the first two-time award recipient.

"I feel doubly blessed to receive this award twice," Burgamy said. "I love my job. How many people get a truck, a 4-wheeler, all the clothes they need to wear and get to go out and enjoy God's green earth? And do you know that in the summertime they pay me to round around beautiful Lake Lanier in a boat?"

According to Gainesville Police Chief Frank Hooper, Schrader was nominated for the award because of the large impact he has had on the lives of so many city residents. As a crime scene technician, Schrader helped to track down tips that lead to the recovery of a safe that was stolen in from Maranatha Christian Academy containing $12,000 in cash and checks.

"I love my job, you don't know what to expect because every day is different," said Schrader. "If you love your job you never work a day in your life. I firmly believe that."