Heroic San Angelo Police Officers Receive 'Meritorious Life-Saving Award'

SAN ANGELO, TX — Two San Angelo Police Department Officers have been awarded the “Meritorious Life-Saving Award” for their "bravery" and "swift action" in saving a young child from drowning.

According to information from the San Angelo Police Department, on January 11, 2024, Sergeant Daniel Williams and Officer Garry Hamilton responded to an emergency call reporting a missing child in the 5200 block of North Bentwood Drive. 

Upon arrival, they found a 4-year-old boy unconscious and submerged in a pool. "Without hesitation," Sergeant Williams retrieved the child and began performing CPR. Officer Hamilton later took over until the San Angelo Fire Department arrived.

"Thanks to their quick and decisive actions, the child was transported to Shannon Medical Center for further medical care," information stated. "Sergeant Williams and Officer Hamilton exemplify the dedication and courage of our police force. Their immediate response and skilled intervention prevented a tragic loss, and we are immensely proud of their actions. This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role our officers play in safeguarding the community."

On an annual basis, the San Angelo Police Department encourages their employees to nominate their fellow officers for meritorious awards. 

These nominations are first submitted to the nominated officer’s chain of command for review, according to information. 

Upon being reviewed by the officer’s chain of command, the nominations are then submitted to the “Meritorious Review Board” who then determine if the Officer’s actions meet the criteria for a meritorious award. 

The Meritorious Review Board then makes their recommendation to the Chief of Police who would then ultimately determine if the Officer receives a meritorious award.