Oak Harbor police officer awarded commendation

By: 
Staff Writer

At a recent meeting of the Oak Harbor Village Council, members of American Legion Post 114 presented a Law Enforcement Certificate of Commendation to Sgt. Taylor Beck, of the Oak Harbor Police Department for her “outstanding public service benefiting our community, state and nation.”
The award acknowledged Sgt. Beck’s continuing leadership efforts during OHPD’s annual Holiday Drive, which is entering its fifth year of community service this fall.
“I launched the Holiday Drive a few years ago because I saw the increased number of community members that were struggling financially, and emotionally, around the holidays,” said Sgt. Beck. “If I were alone for the holidays, I would want someone to notice. That’s all we’re really doing — showing people we see them, letting them know we care, and reminding them we’re more than just police officers. We’re humans, and we’re here for you.”
The program provides Thanksgiving meals – donated by the American Legion – to residents in need in the village and surrounding areas. Members of the public privately contact the department to nominate individuals or families who may benefit. During the drive, which spans the weeks leading up to both Thanksgiving and Christmas, members of the OHPD and Auxiliary also deliver holiday gifts, so children may have a surprise on Christmas morning.
According to Sgt. Beck, the drive is not limited to just people struggling financially. It is also offered to elderly community members who may not have family close by during the holidays or, basically, any “family, couple or individual that could use some holiday cheer.”
“Sgt. Beck has gone above and beyond her duties by helping our residents in need during the holidays,” said Oak Harbor Police Chief Eric Parker, a member of the American Legion. “Her efforts are a great example for others to emulate.”
Chief Parker noted that his own membership with the American Legion has, in some ways, enabled the police department to be “an extension of Post 114’s kindness,” and Post Commander Russel Jesse, his officers and the members have “truly made an impact by providing the necessary monies and goods for the drive.”
With the Oak Harbor Police Department since December of 2015, Sgt. Beck served as a patrol officer until her promotion to sergeant in 2019. The Holiday Drive has grown dramatically each of the past four years and is now assisted by other members of the police department, as well, including Chief Dispatcher Anna Bahnsen.
“Sgt. Beck has taken the American Legion’s generosity and turned it into an amazing annual charity event,” Chief Parker said. “This is the community relation that I strive for every day. Along with the American Legion, Sons of the American Legion, Ladies Auxiliary and our community members, this Holiday Drive will continue as long as we can make it happen.”
For more information, contact Sgt. Beck at 419-898-2055.

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