Craig Howell BRAVERY RECOGNIZED – The actions of Patrolman Adam Mortimer, second from left, in his efforts to save the life of an area teen who drowned in the Ohio River last summer, were recognized during Wednesday's service. Also pictured were, at left, Sgt. Scott Schrader, City Manager Mike Adams, and Police Chief Charlie Kush.

WEIRTON — Representatives of the city’s law enforcement community were joined by family, friends, officials and fellow first responders in front of the Weirton Municipal Building Wednesday in observance of National Police Week.

Elder Michael Smith stood before the officers offering a blessing, while also saying law enforcement officers often do not receive the recognition they deserve, noting the courage, integrity and selflessness it takes to serve as guardians of a community.

“You guys deserve more than just a prayer,” Smith said. “Being a police officer is more than just a job; it’s a calling.”

That courage and selflessness were recognized Wednesday as the city presented a certificate of appreciation to Patrolman Adam Mortimer for his actions last summer while attempting to save a local teen from drowning in the Ohio River.

Last June, 13-year-old Reese Hanshaw of Burgettstown was among a group of youths swimming in the river following heavy rainfall in the days prior. Emergency responders were called to the scene near the Veterans Memorial Bridge after Hanshaw was swept away by the current.

Craig Howell SERVICE REMEMBERED – Members of the Weirton Police Department stood in front of the Weirton Municipal Building, Wednesday, during a service in recognition of National Police Week.

Mortimer was among the first to arrive on the scene.

“Without hesitation, he entered the water and attempted to save her life,” noted Chief Charlie Kush.

Despite life-saving efforts, Hanshaw died at WVU Medicine Weirton Medical Center.

The certificate, along with a proclamation recognizing May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 10-16 as National Police Week, was read by City Manager Mike Adams and Assistant City Manager DeeAnn Pulliam.

“The essence of what you do is unselfishness,” Adams said, noting law enforcement officers are among those called to respond to danger, often disregarding their own safety.

Sgt. Scott Schrader, who served as master of ceremonies Wednesday, encouraged those gathered to remember not only the service of officers, but also the sacrifices made by their families, who display courage and selflessness while supporting loved ones entering potentially dangerous situations.

“We lose track that they spend nights worrying about us,” he said, adding that people often take for granted the peace and safety provided through law enforcement service. “Anyone can handle the helm when the sea is calm.”

Wednesday’s service also included officers thanking John Greco of Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home for his contribution in completing a plaque as part of the city’s K-9 monument, listing the names of each canine that has served the city through the Weirton Police Department.