Maine’s State Police Merit and Citation Awards Ceremony

Vassalboro, Maine (WABI) – Most say it’s just part of the job.

“All of these things that we do daily, help an elderly person stack firewood or any type of the multiple mental health crises that we are responding to every day, that we don’t get recognized for and we don’t want to be recognized for, because that’s what we are, that’s what we do, that’s what a trooper is,” said Colonel William Ross, the keynote speaker for the ceremony. “Someone that doesn’t look for the pat on the back. It’s great when you get one, but that’s not what we are here, We are here to serve.”

Police around the state cherished the recognition they received. They thought of it as a privilege to be among the other award winners. Corporal Blaine Silk of the Northern Field Troop earned the Bravery Award for actions to stop a violent domestic assault. He says any officer in the state would have acted as he did.

“It’s absolutely an honor to get an award any time in your career. For me, it was just the place and time. Anybody else put in those same exact situations in this agency would perform the exact same functions, so I don’t consider myself more brave than anyone else,” said Silk.

Scholarships were given to family of Maine State Police as well as awards to first responders and citizens for their actions in situations to save Mainers in need. Jonathan Maynard and Jessica Deleon were honored for their efforts in stopping a person with a knife in a post office.

“What an honor to be recognized with all of these amazing officers and citizens, and I feel very grateful for that for sure,” said Limerick’s Deleon.

The Legendary Trooper of the Year award, the highest award that can be given to a Maine state trooper, went to Sergeant Frank “Joe” Poirier.

“Joe was and is to this day, one of the most professional and dedicated law enforcement officers to ever serve the citizens of this state. He always treated everyone with the upmost respect. With that, please join me in recognizing retired Sergeant Joe Poirier as this year’s legendary trooper,” announced award presenter retired Major Gary Wright.

Copyright 2024 WABI. All rights reserved.