Chicopee officers honored with Medal of Valor
Date: 12/6/2013
By G. Michael Dobbs
news@thereminder.comBOSTON – Three Chicopee police officers received the Medal of Valor from Gov. Deval Patrick on Dec. 2 at a ceremony in the State House.
Officers David Benoit, Joseph Brunelle and Johnny Jusino were among the 22 police officials honored during the Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery.
“Every day, in countless ways, we are reminded of the crucial role police officers play in keeping our neighborhoods safe,” Patrick said. “And we never can forget the dangers they face, the sacrifices they and their families make, and the debt we owe to them. It is of great importance that we recognize today’s award recipients. They truly are the finest and the bravest.”
Chicopee Police Chief Thomas Charette explained to
Reminder Publications the three officers were honored for their actions during the shooting on April 13, 2012 on West Street.
Charette said the three men rescued State Trooper John Vasquez who had been wounded.
“They did a great job that day. They showed an incredible amount of courage,” Charette said.
Vasquez also received the Medal of Valor.
Springfield Police Officer Kevin Ambrose, who was killed in the line of duty on June 4, 2012, was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously.
The award ceremony marked the 30th anniversary of the death of Trooper George L. Hanna, who was fatally shot by three men in Auburn.
