Mesquite, TX – April 17, 2019 – The Mesquite Police Department (MPD) presented its highest award, the Medal of Honor, to three police officers during the April 15 City Council Work Session. MPD has not awarded a Medal of Honor in 45 years. The department also honored other employees and citizens through a presentation of awards for outstanding acts of service. Read more about the awards and those honored.
Police Officers Douglas Coyle, Brian Hill and Scott Jimenez received the Police Medal of Honor, the department’s highest honor for extraordinary heroism. The officers were recognized for their courageous actions in the face of danger on Oct. 3, 2018, when a school bus transporting about 40 children crashed into an electric pole, sparking an electrical fire.
“Tonight was a historic night in the history of the Mesquite Police Department, because we presented three Medals of Honor, the highest award of valor, which hasn’t been presented in the City since 1974,” said Police Chief Charles Cato. “Tonight’s recipients performed heroically under the most difficult circumstances. I’m honored to be able to work with heroes every day.”
Police Officer Paul Wathen received Officer of the Year and Police Records Supervisor James Harrison received Civilian of the Year. Other award categories include Certificate of Merit, Lifesaving Bar and Citizens’ Certificate of Merit.