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BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, and Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy honored the bravery and sacrifice of Massachusetts law enforcement officers at the 41st Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery. Held at the State House, the ceremony recognizes exceptional acts of courage by law enforcement and commemorates the legacy of Trooper George Hanna, who was killed in the line of duty in 1983.
Since the award’s inception in 1983, 177 individuals have received the Hanna Award Medal of Honor, the highest commendation for law enforcement officers in the Commonwealth. This year’s honorees include 11 members of law enforcement from the Acushnet, Berlin, Oxford, Lakeville, and Boston Police Departments, as well as the Massachusetts State Police and the Massachusetts Port Authority, whose actions demonstrated extraordinary valor in the face of extreme danger.
“Massachusetts’ most prestigious law enforcement award honors the remarkable courage and dedication demonstrated by our law enforcement officers statewide, who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said Governor Healey. “Today’s recipients reflect the enduring legacy of Trooper George Hanna, whose life and service continue to inspire us all. Their stories remind us of the immense bravery required in this profession and the sacrifices officers and their families make to keep our communities safe.”
“Hanna Award recipients exemplify the exceptional dedication, training, and bravery that define the very best of law enforcement,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “As we honor these heroes, we also extend heartfelt gratitude to their families, whose love and support makes their service possible. We acknowledge the significant sacrifices made by the families of first responders and the emotional burden of awaiting their loved one’s safe return after each shift.”
“Every day, law enforcement officers across Massachusetts confront life-threatening situations with remarkable courage and selflessness,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Reidy. “Today’s honorees embody the heroic legacy of Trooper George Hanna, serving as a powerful reminder of the risks and dangers law enforcement officers face each day and with every call.”
The ceremony also featured members of the Hanna Award Selection Committee and the family of Trooper George Hanna. Trooper Hanna’s daughters, Deborah and Kimberly, participated in the program by presenting awards alongside Governor Healey, ensuring their father’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of law enforcement.
Each year, state and local agencies submit nominations for the Hanna Awards, which are reviewed by a selection committee of public safety and law enforcement leaders. Upon selecting individuals or teams as recipients, the committee considers the facts of each nomination to classify the award as either a medal of honor or valor. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for those who demonstrate extraordinary bravery and courage in the face of extreme risk and certain and imminent danger to life or limb. Valor is awarded to those whose valor in a single incident goes above and beyond the call of duty, and who demonstrate selfless bravery despite the potential for danger to themselves.
The awards are named in memory of Trooper George L. Hanna, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on February 26, 1983. While conducting a routine motor vehicle stop in Auburn, Trooper Hanna was fatally shot by a suspect. He left behind his wife, Marilyn, and three children, Deborah, Kimberly, and Michael.
The 2024 Hanna Award recipients and incident summaries are as follows:
Officer Kevin M. Martins, Medal of Valor
Acushnet Police Department
On December 29, 2023, law enforcement officers from Acushnet, Mattapoisett, and Fairhaven Police Departments faced a grave and rapidly escalating situation outside the Bayside Lounge in Fairhaven. Responding to a mutual aid call, they encountered an armed and agitated individual in the parking lot, posing a significant threat to public safety.
Demonstrating exceptional teamwork, the officers from all three agencies promptly secured the area to protect civilians. For over 30 minutes, they utilized advanced de-escalation techniques, rotating communication duties to calm the individual. Despite their unwavering commitment to a peaceful resolution, the situation escalated when non-lethal options, including a BolaWrap, Taser, and beanbag rounds, failed to subdue the subject. Tragically, the individual opened fire, injuring Acushnet Officer Kevin Martins, who was struck in the leg.
In a moment that epitomizes courage and professionalism, Officer Martins continued to assist his team even after sustaining an injury. The officers collectively returned fire, ultimately neutralizing the threat. Their swift actions under fire not only safeguarded innocent lives but ensured the preservation of order in a chaotic and dangerous environment.
Officer Kevin Martins’ actions are emblematic of selflessness and dedication. Despite being wounded, he demonstrated composure and bravery, embodying the core values of law enforcement. The coordination and resilience displayed by all the officers involved reflect their commitment to public safety, even at great personal risk.
This incident underscores the challenges faced daily by those who serve and protect. It also highlights the importance of collaboration across agencies in managing complex and life-threatening situations. Officer Martins and his colleagues are true heroes, whose actions deserve our deepest gratitude and respect.
Officer Molly E. Plante, Medal of Valor
Berlin Police Department
On the morning of April 14, 2023, Officer Molly Plante was on duty in the town of Berlin when, at approximately 3:27 a.m., a call came in reporting a house explosion. Responding immediately, Officer Plante arrived at the scene to find a devastating sight: a two-story home had collapsed into rubble, now resembling a single-story structure. Residents stood atop the debris, as they could hear cries for help from a victim trapped beneath the wreckage.
The situation grew more perilous as fire spread rapidly through the pile of rubble, and live electrical lines lay dangerously exposed. Without hesitation, Officer Plante joined the residents atop the unstable debris, working urgently to free the trapped victim. The growing fire intensified, and the heat became nearly unbearable, but she persisted.
Breaking through the roofing material, Officer Plante and the others reached one of the two victims. Demonstrating extraordinary strength and courage, she lifted the injured individual onto her shoulders and began carefully maneuvering down the pile of debris. The conditions were treacherous, with the fire raging and the structural integrity of the rubble uncertain. Officer Plante carried the victim to safety, placing her behind her police cruiser to await EMS.
As she set the victim down, the house became completely engulfed in flames. Moments later, a second explosion ripped through the scene, scattering debris and leaving the home reduced to fragments. Officer Plante later described the aftermath as “raining fire.”
Her swift and selfless actions prevented further fatalities and ensured the survival of the victim she rescued. Without her bravery and willingness to act under extreme conditions, the outcome could have been far more tragic. Officer Plante’s courage exemplifies the highest standards of public service, even in the face of life-threatening danger.
Officer Plante now serves with the Framingham Police Department.
Officer Kenneth C. Mead Jr., Medal of Valor
Oxford Police Department
On May 14, 2023, Officer Kenneth Mead of the Oxford Police Department displayed extraordinary bravery, composure, and quick decision-making in the face of imminent danger.
At approximately 6:00 a.m., while patrolling Main Street, Officer Mead encountered an individual behaving erratically. Without warning, the individual ran into the road wielding a sword, endangering himself and obstructing traffic. As the suspect approached Officer Mead’s cruiser in a threatening manner, Officer Mead reversed to create distance. However, a pickup truck behind him blocked his retreat, forcing him to confront the escalating threat head-on.
Exiting his cruiser, Officer Mead issued loud, clear commands for the suspect to drop the weapon. Ignoring the warnings, the suspect advanced aggressively, sword in hand. Demonstrating exceptional courage under extreme pressure, Officer Mead drew his firearm while continuing to issue commands, intent on de-escalating the situation without lethal force.
As the suspect charged, closing the distance and leaving Officer Mead no other option, he fired his weapon, striking the individual and neutralizing the threat. Even after the immediate danger had passed, Officer Mead’s heroism did not waver. Acting swiftly, he secured the sword to prevent further harm, called for emergency medical assistance, and began administering life-saving aid to the injured suspect.
Officer Mead’s actions reflect extraordinary bravery and a steadfast commitment to preserving life, even in the most challenging and dangerous circumstances. His ability to remain composed under pressure exemplifies the highest standards of law enforcement.
Officer Mead has been promoted to Sergeant at the Oxford Police Department.
Trooper Ryan T. Costello, Medal of Valor
Massachusetts State Police
On April 8, 2023, Trooper Ryan Costello of the Massachusetts State Police responded to a rollover crash near 443 Middle Road in Clarksburg. Upon arrival, he found an overturned orange Subaru and learned from EMS that the driver with his two-year-old son had fled the scene on foot toward Hudson Brook.
Hearing commotion near the brook, Trooper Costello located the driver, who was intoxicated and unsteady, shouting for his missing son. The man indicated his son had been near a parked vehicle but was now missing. Trooper Costello immediately alerted his barracks and began coordinating a search for the child, described as having blond hair and wearing a blue "onesie.”
Shortly after, the child was spotted by first responders face down in the fast-moving, frigid waters of the brook. Without hesitation, Trooper Costello, in full uniform, entered the freezing waters but was unable to reach the child due to the powerful current. He exited, ran further downstream, and re-entered the water, successfully retrieving the toddler. Trooper Costello handed the child to firefighters, and EMS initiated CPR before transporting him to Berkshire Medical Center. Tragically, the child was pronounced dead despite extensive lifesaving efforts.
An investigation revealed the driver had been intoxicated while operating the vehicle, which struck a utility pole and overturned. He was arrested and later pleaded guilty to manslaughter and related charges, receiving a sentence of 9 to 15 years in state prison.
Berkshire County District Attorney Timothy Shugrue described the incident as one of the most tragic cases of his career, commending Trooper Costello for his selflessness and professionalism. Trooper Costello’s unwavering courage, prioritization of the child’s rescue, and willingness to enter the freezing waters multiple times exemplify the highest standards of the Massachusetts State Police.
While it is a horrible tragedy the child ultimately passed away, Trooper Costello and the other fire and EMS members demonstrated extraordinary effort and resilience.
Trooper William J. Munch, Medal of Valor
Massachusetts State Police
On September 9, 2023, at 6:50 a.m., the State Police barracks in Lee received a report of a male attacking his brother with a knife at a residence in Hancock. Trooper William Munch was dispatched and promptly responded to the scene.
Upon arrival, Trooper Munch took immediate action to locate involved parties and search for potential victims while simultaneously relaying vehicle registration information from the driveway back to the barracks. As Trooper Munch approached the residence and entered through a garage door, he was immediately confronted by an armed man holding two knives, bleeding from his arms, and yelling, “Just kill me!” Uncertain of whether there was a stabbing victim inside the residence or elsewhere, Trooper Munch attempted to deescalate the situation, repeatedly pleading with the man to drop the knives.
Despite Trooper Munch’s efforts, the man advanced toward him, still armed and ignoring commands. Trooper Munch exited the garage to create distance, but the man followed him outside, continuing to approach aggressively and continued to yell at Trooper Munch to kill him.
Facing an imminent threat to his safety and the safety of others, Trooper Munch discharged his firearm, striking the man. Despite being shot, the man continued to advance, knives still in hand. Trooper Munch attempted further de-escalation, retreating down the driveway while continuing to issue commands. When the man refused to stop and persisted in his approach, Trooper Munch discharged his firearm a second time to stop the threat.
Trooper Munch immediately radioed the barracks, requested EMS, and retrieved his medical bag from his cruiser to administer lifesaving aid. EMS arrived shortly thereafter and assumed care, but the individual succumbed to his injuries.
A subsequent search of the residence and surrounding area confirmed there were no additional victims, and all family members were accounted for. In the face of extreme danger and uncertainty, Trooper Munch demonstrated exceptional bravery and composure, risking his own life to protect others and resolve a volatile situation.
Trooper Christopher J. Nee and Officer Dakota J. Jones, Medals of Valor
Massachusetts State Police and Lakeville Police Department
On September 29, 2023, Massachusetts State Police Trooper Christopher Nee and Lakeville Police Department Officer Dakota Jones demonstrated remarkable bravery and composure during a high stakes encounter with an armed suspect in Lakeville.
The incident unfolded in the early morning hours when Officer Jones, patrolling Precinct Street, observed suspicious behavior from an individual who had parked his vehicle near Officer Jones’s cruiser. As the situation escalated, the suspect exited his vehicle, pointing a firearm in the direction of Officer Jones, and making repeated threats, shouting, “Kill or be killed.” Despite the imminent threat to his life, Officer Jones maintained his position and issued commands for the suspect to disarm.
Officer Jones sought to create space between him and the suspect. While moving positions with minimal cover, Officer Jones heard an individual shout, “Drop the gun!” followed by the sound of gunfire. Officer Jones heard the suspect continue to repeat, “Kill or be killed” multiple times.
The individual that Officer Jones heard yell “Drop the gun!” was Trooper Nee, who was returning home from his barracks in Middleboro after completing a late arrest during the evening shift. A recent graduate of the 88th Recruit Training Troop, Trooper Nee was off duty, driving his personal vehicle and dressed in business attire.
As Trooper Nee approached a left turn onto Pickens Street, he noticed a Lakeville Police cruiser parked on the side of the road, appearing to monitor traffic. Opposite the cruiser, another vehicle was stopped. As Trooper Nee passed the scene slowly, he observed Officer Jones engaging with an individual who appeared to be armed with a gun.
Recognizing the potential danger, Trooper Nee immediately stopped, reversed his vehicle, and quickly exited, taking cover behind his car. He issued clear commands for the suspect to drop the weapon. The suspect, instead of complying, turned toward Trooper Nee and pointed his firearm at him.
In response to the imminent threat to their safety, Officer Jones and Trooper Nee fired several rounds, effectively neutralizing the threat. Following the confrontation, both officers worked collaboratively to secure the scene and render medical aid to the suspect.
The suspect was taken into custody and transported to the hospital, where he later provided a statement to investigators, admitting his intent to provoke a deadly force encounter with police officers.
Trooper Nee’s and Officer Jones’s decisive actions and extraordinary bravery in the face of danger are a testament to their dedication and training. These events serve as a reminder of the immense challenges faced by law enforcement officers daily and the heroic measures they take to safeguard their communities.
In a related update, former Lakeville Police Officer Dakota Jones has recently graduated from the Massachusetts State Police 90th Recruit Training Troop and is now serving as Trooper Dakota Jones.
Medal of Honor
Officer Christopher Kerrigan, Medal of Honor
Boston Police Department
On June 9, 2023, at approximately 9:00 p.m., Officer Christopher Kerrigan initiated a "walk and talk" Code 19 near the scene of an armed robbery involving a pizza delivery driver. While patrolling, Officer Kerrigan observed an individual exiting a building wearing clothing matching that of the robbery suspect's description. He also noticed an unoccupied pizza delivery vehicle nearby. Moments later, the delivery driver emerged with his hands raised, followed by the armed suspect, who was pointing a gun at him.
Without hesitation, Officer Kerrigan confronted the armed suspect, who retreated up a stairwell. As Officer Kerrigan pursued, the suspect fired at him, striking him in the foot. Another shot hit Officer Kerrigan in the lower back as he sought cover. Despite his injuries and the ongoing threat, Officer Kerrigan immediately notified Operations of his location, detailed observations of the suspect, and the nature of his wounds.
The suspect fled on foot, but responding officers pursued him and safely apprehended him after a lengthy chase.
Officer Kerrigan’s courageous actions stopped an active armed robbery and protected an innocent delivery driver. His bravery and dedication to the safety of Boston’s citizens exemplify the highest standards of public service.
Officer Matthew J.T. Flynn, Medal of Honor
Massachusetts Port Authority Police Department
On Saturday, March 26, 2022, at approximately 8:00 p.m., Officer Matthew Flynn was conducting a foot patrol in Piers Park, East Boston, when he encountered a woman in severe emotional distress. The woman was perched on the outside railing threatening to jump into Boston Harbor. Flynn made several attempts to persuade the female to return to the inside of the railing, but she ultimately made the decision to jump into the water.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Officer Flynn immediately radioed his location and, without hesitation, made the courageous decision to dive into the freezing water to save her. Reaching the woman, he managed to grab hold of her and swim to the harbor wall. However, due to the height of the seawall and the tide, Officer Flynn was unable to exit the water. Instead, he clung to the wall, holding the woman afloat and ensuring her safety.
Responding officers provided flotation devices while awaiting the Massachusetts State Police Marine Unit. Upon their arrival, both Officer Flynn and the woman were pulled to safety. They were subsequently transported to Massachusetts General Hospital for evaluation and treatment.
Officer Flynn’s selfless actions, undertaken with complete disregard for his own safety, exemplify extraordinary bravery. By acting swiftly in the face of darkness, freezing water, and adverse weather conditions, Officer Flynn transformed what could have been a tragic recovery operation into a successful rescue, saving a life in the process.
Trooper Thomas F. Cusack and Trooper Gregory A. Santos, Medals of Honor
Massachusetts State Police
On February 25, 2023, members of the MGM Springfield Gaming Enforcement Unit were called to assist MGM security with a verbal altercation between two individuals inside the casino. Before officers arrived, one of the individuals fled the scene.
During an interview with the remaining party, it was revealed that the fleeing individual had threatened to shoot and kill them.
Trooper Thomas Cusack and Trooper Gregory Santos were alerted by MGM surveillance that the suspect had exited the casino through the hotel lobby and walked onto Main Street. The Troopers quickly located the suspect nearby.
Without warning, the suspect turned toward the Troopers, produced a handgun, and fired several rounds at them from close range. Despite having no available cover or concealment, Trooper Cusack and Trooper Santos returned fire, striking the suspect. The suspect fell to the ground mortally wounded.
Troopers Cusack and Santos acted heroically and demonstrated remarkable bravery while under fire in a life and death situation.
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