Captain Steven Leffew, Officer in Charge of the Smithville Police Department, recognized three members of the department for outstanding service last Wednesday. Officer James Cornelius, Officer Andy Snow, and Sergeant Travis Bryant were commended in a staff meeting at city hall attended by Mayor Jimmy Poss and Alderman and Police Commissioner Jason Murphy.

Cornelius and Snow were awarded certificates in recognition of their work during a fire at City Walk Apartments in January 2012, where they entered the burning building for residents who needed help evacuating the structure. Bryant's was recognized for keeping files and evidence properly secured in his capacity as the department's evidence custodian.

Cornelius and Snow’s commendations both read:

"On behalf of the City of Smithville Police Department, I would like to commend you for your recent efforts in your capacity as a Smithville Police Officer.

"On January 14, 2012, the Smithville Police Department and the Smithville Fire Department responded to 911 calls of a fully-engulfed fire at an apartment complex. Officer James Cornelius and Officer Andy Snow were the first to arrive on the scene, and with reports that there could still be residents inside, and without hesitation, they entered the complex in search of anyone who might need help.

"It is initiatives like this that will distinguish Smithville Police Officers as friends and protectors, and will take our police department to a higher level of excellence. You have served with distinction and you are a credit to the Smithville Police Department.

"Officers Cornelius and Officer Snow, for your outstanding service, you are hereby formally recognized and commended with a copy of this commendation becoming a part of your permanent personnel file. Congratulations, and keep up the good work."

Bryant’s commendation read:

"On behalf of the City of Smithville Police Department, I would like to commend you for your recent efforts in your capacity as a Smithville Police Officer and Evidence Custodian. Speaking from experience, I (Captain Leffew) know how demanding proper evidence management can be. Recently, I conducted a random and unannounced inspection of the evidence/property room. Random case numbers were selected, and all pieces of evidence were found to be both secure and in their proper location. Evidence files and property were also found to be in order. I found that all security measures were being maintained.

"Your determination and efforts in the continued performance of your duties exemplify your outstanding work ethic. The integrity you have shown as evidence custodian enables the citizens of Smithville and your fellow coworkers to know that the Smithville Police Department is continuously striving for quality service.

“Sergeant Bryant, for your outstanding service, you are hereby formally recognized and commended with a copy of this commendation becoming a part of your permanent personnel file.

"Thank you for your service and congratulations on a job well done".

The commendations to all three officers were signed by Captain Leffew, Mayor Poss, and Police Commissioner Murphy.