NOMINATIONS FOR WILLIS "RED" HAYES AWARD

PRESS RELEASE

PRESS-RELEASE

 

On behalf of Chief Michael J. Allen, the Rochester Police Department releases the following:

The Rochester Police Department is accepting nominations for the 4th annual Rochester, NH Patrol Officer Community Service Award a.k.a the “Red Hayes Community Ambassador Award.” The nomination period is open until Friday, February 20, 2015. The history and criterion for this award is as follows:

The Willis “Red” Hayes Community Ambassador’s Award

Introduction. Willis “Red” Hayes was a longtime Rochester Police Officer, a patrolman, visible to all on the square in Rochester from the 1940’s to the 1970’s.  He exhibited a buoyant spirit that welcomed others into his life even when working in a hostile situation. Friendly interaction was always evident so an individual felt special and respected. He could get beyond the hard shell of life and reach the spirit of the person. His red face always showed a smile and his honed communication skills drew out the best in the other person. His style was to offer guidance and not provoke a hostile response.  “Red” was a conscientious and supportive friend to all Rochester Citizens while exercising his public duty to uphold the law.

This award will be given to a current patrol officer for his or her service in promoting and improving a positive community relationship.

Criteria

The patrol officer has earned the respect and admiration of the community through their good work as demonstrated by two or more of the following standards:

  • Public testimony via correspondence to the department, i.e., thank you letters, phone calls, text messages, etc.
  • Testimony from a fellow officer who has observed the public response to his or her actions while on duty.
  • A previous citation from the command and or a civic group
  • The officer exhibits some of the characteristics as listed below

 

  • Friendly interaction with the public so an individual feels special and respected in a criminal environment

  • Shows compassion for the situation

  • Outgoing, gregarious and “stands out beyond the uniform.”

  • Willing to rehab criminal behavior even on the spot

  • Can foresee the danger in a given situation and reduce the tension

  • Exhibits positive community spirit through his or her voluntary involvement in the community.   

Nomination Process

Any citizen and or member of the Rochester Police Department may recommend a candidate for this award.

Annually nominations will be initiated by the Chief of Police and announced in the media, on public affairs channels, at Police Commission or City Council meetings. Citizen correspondence can be sent to

 

The Willis “Red” Hayes Committee

c/o the Rochester Police Department

 23 Wakefield Street

Rochester, NH 03867

 

This award has been adopted in the Police Department Policy Standard 26.1.2 Commendations and Awards.

 

Michael J. Allen

Chief of Police