MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – Men and women of the green and gold were honored at the Statehouse on Friday. Several state troopers received promotions and others were awarded for heroic and lifesaving actions.
“Every day you all face situations that require not just skill – but a commitment to justice and public safety,” said Col Matthew Birmingham, the commander of the Vermont State Police.
More than two dozen Vermont troopers were honored under the golden dome for acts of bravery, from cold water rescues to hostage rescues involving violent offenders.
“The T. Rugg’s incident was very complex. It evolved very quickly,” Vt. State Police Lt. Michael Fillipek said.
After several hours, state police tactical teams ended the standoff, taking Lee into custody. Fillipek was the commander that day and says violent incidents like this are happening more often.
“That seems to correlate with the drug trends that we’re seeing, as well as mental health trends that we’re seeing. The mix of everything together is creating a challenging environment for us to operate in and there’s certainly been no shortage of work lately,” he said.
State leaders and police commanders on Friday recognized troopers for their heroism with awards.
“To be able to take time and recognize that work is extremely important for our people, it’s important for the victims of crime, it’s important for the public to see the incredible work that they do,” Birmingham said.
Gov. Phil Scott spoke at the ceremony, taking a political stance on the public perception of law enforcement and calling for change in Montpelier.
“Over the last few years, it may have felt like some don’t appreciate the work you do. But I believe the tide is turning,” said Scott, R-Vermont.
The governor spoke to efforts at the Statehouse to hold repeat offenders accountable and help the Vermont State Police rebuild its ranks.
“We’re trying to get creative and innovative and do things that are unique and different. We’ve created digital content on social media that I think have been very successful for us,” Birmingham said.
Birmingham says these ceremonies help to boost morale within the department and create interest in the field. Sixteen other troopers were also promoted to higher ranks during the ceremony.