By Paul Bean

The Vermont State Police and their families gathered Friday morning (9/19) for their annual award ceremony in the Vermont State House in Montpelier to celebrate members of the agency for acts of heroism, community service, and twenty three members of the state police who have received promotions since last year. 

Speakers included Gov. Phil Scott, Commissioner of Public Safety Jennifer Morrison and Col. Matthew T. Birmingham, director of the state police. 

“In these very fractured and polarizing political times, your generosity, selflessness and sacrifice is an example to all of us,” said Governor Phil Scott to state troopers and their families gathered in the House Chamber of the Vermont State House. “I’d always admire those who run towards danger rather than running in the opposite direction,” he continued. 

Humility, integrity, community, and family were common themes throughout the morning ceremony.

Trooper Nathaniel Quealy and Dispatcher Brittany Wood were awarded the Lifesaving Award for their actions Dec. 8, 2024, when they assisted a woman who was attempting self harm. After describing her experience and some details on the situation, Dispatcher Brittany Wood said, “This [award ceremony] is cool and I am honored and all, but at the end of the day I was just doing my job the best that I can.” 

“I wasn’t expecting to receive an award,” said Lt Colonel Jim Whitcomb, who is retiring in November after nearly 30 years of service to the State of Vermont. “I’ve been here watching these awards for many, many years, and watching the heroes that our people are engaged in, in excellent work. That’s really who should be honored. I’ve been lucky to have an amazing career with the State Police. I’ve done a lot of things, but this day is about the families who have watched our young troopers and workers that are out there doing policing every day…”

“We also gave a special tribute to Lt. Col. Jim Whitcomb…” wrote the Vermont State Police on their Facebook Page about Whitcomb. “His receipt of the Commissioner’s Award and his family’s attendance at the ceremony were a surprise — and a well-deserved honor.”

“I love these, because not only do we honor the troopers and the dispatchers, but the families,” said newly promoted Lieutenant Colonel Shawn Loan.  “Like the governor said earlier today, hearing the kids in the crowd and just having that family sense, it gets you back to why this job, which is community, you know, our community, but the onset.”

In his opening remarks the Governor told families not to worry if their children were loud or making noise because ultimately the families and children are what the ceremony was all about. 

“13 years ago, I went up there with a baby. Now, she walks up with me,” said Lt. Col. Loan.  “You know what I mean? Like, they grow up in this. They see, you know, the Commissioner, the governor, our command staff. They see them as family. You know, they get hugs. They get hand slaps and handshakes. So it’s a great way to get everybody together.”

“I wanted to send a special welcome to the family members and loved ones of our employees,” said Public Saftey Commissioner Jen Morrison in her welcoming speech. “We’re so glad that you are here to share this celebration. We know that behind every outstanding employee is a supportive system that makes this type of work possible. So thank you for all that you do to support VSP. This year’s awards and promotion ceremony, like the past three that I have had the privilege to participate in, is packed with incredible stories of bravery, commitment, compassion and sacrifice.”

For more details on the award ceremony, awards, and promotions for State Troopers, check out their website.