The Paducah Police Department honored more than 30 officers and civilian employees, and nine Paducah citizens on February 2 for their outstanding acts of duty and service to the community in 2022.
Paducah Tilghman SRO Zane White received the Meritorious Service Award, the second-highest award given by the department.
Officer White received the award for his work at a tractor-trailer/pickup truck crash that actually occurred outside the city limits. The pickup truck had caught fire with the driver trapped inside, and city officers were able to respond quickly to assist the deputy on scene. White and the deputy used multiple fire extinguishers to help keep the fire from engulfing the truck.
Without regard for his own safety, Officer White endured heat, nearby flames and heavy smoke to help ensure the safety of the driver.