GREENSPOINT — Each year in May, communities around the nation honor their Public Safety Officers for their dedication and courage. The Houston Intercontinental Chamber holds an Awards luncheon each year, with the help fo the Greenspoint District.
The event was held last Thursday at the Hilton Greenspoint, with Chamber president Reggie Gray as emcee, and Greenspoint’s Jerry Lowry as the presenter.
The program included recognition by Chamber president Reggie Gray of the Lone Star College officers that patrol the Greenspoint Center location, including the Chamber offices.
Then Jerry Lowry opened with remarks regarding the dangers and rewards of being a police officer, which he knows from personal experience as an officer. He honored the following officers who had given their lives in 2009: HPD Henry Canales, Chamber County Sheriff’s Deputy Shane Detwiler, and Pasadena Officer Jesse Hamilton.
He then proceeded to present awards for outstanding service.
The main award, not given every year, was to Harris County Deputy John W. Laird, Jr.
Laird received this award for outstanding police work while at the same time fighting a battle with cancer, and raising a family with a wife and two children.
Laird not only is an outstanding police officer, but also is a Marine who saw service in Haiti, Bosnia, Liberia, Central African Republic, and other overseas assignments where he received many medals and honors.
An example of his work: while undergoing cancer treatment in 2009, he also responded to more than 1200 calls for service, and made 85 arrests.
Laird spoke after receiving his award, saying his desire was to emulate the qualities of his father. About law enforcement, he said he feels 99% of the people he deals with are good people. “I still have fun doing my job.” As to his cancer, he philosophizes, “Cancer is just another fight,” to be won by him no doubt.