From left: Englewood Police Chief Sam Watson, award recipient Officer Matt Creaghe,
recipient Sergeant Reid McGrath, Lt. Alex Dorgan from Station 37 in Englewood, recipient Brad Thayer,
Deputy Chief Robert Murphy accepting for recipient Brad Balding, Rotary President Shawn Lewis
Two Englewood Police officers and a district chief and captain from the Denver Fire Department, which serves Englewood, have received Spirit of Rotary Awards as First Responders of the Year.
Englewood Rotary created the Spirit of Rotary Awards this Rotary year to recognize leaders, doers and high achievers in our community.
“First responders – police, firefighters, paramedics – are critical to public safety. Englewood Rotary is proud to present these awards and our deep appreciation to these four people who have shown exceptional service this year,” said Club President Shawn Lewis at the recent presentation.
During the presentation Rotarian Patty Burnett characterized first responders as Real Life Super-Heroes.
Englewood Police Officer Matt Creaghe received his Spirit of Rotary Award for his initiative in the job of School Resource Officer for Englewood Schools. He has developed valuable relationships with staff, students and the greater school community.
Sergeant Reid McGrath was honored for his 31 years with the Englewood Police Department, and a total of 40 in law enforcement. Sgt. McGrath recently retired. His work in mental wellness and alternative policing programs has made Englewood Police one of the most progressive departments in the state and in the country, according to the department chief.
Denver Fire’s District 7 Chief Brad Balding received his Spirit of Rotary Award in recognition of his successful role in integrating coverage of Englewood into the Denver Fire system, ensuring that members of Stations 37 and 38 know the resources and policies of Englewood. Service in Englewood began in 2015.
Captain Brad Thayer was cited for methodically building Station 37 into one known for its professionalism, pride and community service commitment. He worked well with city planners as they navigated a major remodeling and upgrading of that station serving Englewood, his nomination said.
Spirit of Rotary Awards have also recognized leaders in business and the nonprofit sector. A fourth recognition in the spring will honor leaders in education.