A staff report
Bladen County Sheriff’s Office held its highly anticipated 2024 Awards Ceremony on March 13, 2024, marking a momentous occasion to recognize the exemplary achievements of their dedicated team members. Hosted at the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, the event drew friends and family members of the BCSO, all gathering to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of those being honored.
Sheriff Jim McVicker opened the ceremony with gratitude, expressing appreciation for the attendees’ presence and emphasizing the pride felt towards the honorees. Deputy Shella Stephens then took the floor, highlighting the Sheriff’s Office mission of continually striving for excellence with the mantra, “Keep raising the bar.”
Through insightful remarks and six key takeaways in raising the bar, Stephens gave six examples of how to raise the bar at work and life as the Sheriff wrote the points on a whiteboard. To raise the bar, you have to surround yourself with people who are positive, supportive, motivated, smart, kind, and willing to celebrate accomplishments. Deputy Stephens underscored these values as essential for success within the Sheriff’s Office.
The event continued with Pastor Warren Hill offering blessings over the special occasion, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Captain Daniel Clark. Chief Deputy Morgan Johnson recognized the invaluable support of the families and friends, acknowledging their vital role in the Sheriff’s Office’s relentless commitment to serving the community.
Major Joe Cotton proceeded to present the prestigious awards, showcasing the outstanding contributions of various team members. Officer Brenda Thompson was honored with the Detention Officer of the Year Award, while Detective Trent Lewis received the esteemed title of Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Deputy of the Year. Ms. Tracy Hatcher was recognized as the Administrative Employee of the Year, and Mrs. Aspen N Batten received accolades as the Telecommunicator of the Year.
Furthermore, seven Bladen County Sheriff’s Office members were celebrated with the Lifesaving Award for their exemplary teamwork during a critical situation involving a structure fire in Bladenboro, NC. The brave lifesavers are as follows: Lieutenant James White, First Sergeant Linda Jacobs, Sergeant Matt Long, Sergeant John Kelly, Sergeant Wally Willoughby, Deputy Travis Deaver, and Deputy Rena Bryant. Their swift and coordinated efforts undoubtedly saved lives and exemplified the Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to public safety.
Additionally, Detective Sergeant Michael Ratcliffe and Detective Chris Brisson were honored with the Act of Valor Award for their heroic actions in saving the life of an infant during a perilous car chase.
The ceremony also marked a significant moment as Cristen Hursey, Bladen County Clerk of Superior Courts, administered the Oath of Office to Summer Harris, a new Records Clerk at the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, symbolizing the continuation of the office’s legacy of excellence.
In his closing remarks, Sheriff McVicker extended heartfelt thanks to retired Randolph County Sheriff Maynard B. Reid, Jr., Bladen County Commissioners Charles Ray Peterson, and Ray Britt, and all attendees for their unwavering support and participation in this memorable event.
The 2024 Awards Ceremony of the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office showcases the unwavering dedication and unity of the entire Sheriff’s Office team in serving and protecting the community.
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