Commissioner Ramsey: For Fencl Award, select 'our front line of defense'

FEW EVENTS in the life of the Philadelphia Police Department can simultaneously unite us and devastate us as does the death of one of our officers, killed in the line of duty. Our Department is bereaved, and our grief collectively shared not only by the law-enforcement community, but also by the City of Philadelphia.

We extend our deepest sorrows and prayers to the friends, families and loved ones of all of the fallen. Sgt. Liczbinski, Officer Nazario, Sgt. McDonald, Sgt. Simpson and, most recently, Officer Pawlowski: Thank you for your service and your ultimate sacrifice — you will always be a part of this great Department.

Today, the Daily News is soliciting the public's assistance in nominating a sworn member of the Philadelphia Police Department for the annual George Fencl Award. Today, I'm also asking for your help in choosing a police officer whose career exemplifies the very values worn on the sleeve of the Philadelphia Police Department uniform: Honor, Integrity and Service.

We have outstanding members of this Department of every rank, from the police officer on the street to Deputy Commissioner. For this year's Fencl Award winner, however, I'm encouraging the public to nominate the men and women of the PPD who serve as our front line of defense against crime and violence, and that is the officer on patrol. Every day, these courageous men and women demonstrate their commitment to the City of Philadelphia, whether responding to emergency 9-1-1 calls or on routine patrol, answering questions from the citizens whom they serve or walking on our streets.

Their work is invaluable. Their commitment to their job is incalculable, and cannot be measured with numbers or spreadsheets. Look into your own neighborhood where you've gotten to know the officers who work in your district, or think of a time when an officer made a difference in your own life or the life of others. You don't have to look far — our uniformed patrol officers are the backbone of this Department, and they are there, day in and day out, serving the communities in which we all live and work.

I have come to know many of the residents of this great city during my short time here. I have seen and heard your enduring support, in e-mails, letters or in public. You have the opportunity this year to show your support for the officer on the street — the person who is not in the public eye, but deeply committed to public safety.

Now you may honor and praise our officers with your nomination, and I hope that you do. It is in partnership with the community we serve, side by side, that the Philadelphia Police Department will make the greatest impact in improving the quality of lives for all.

— Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey