At the annual Public Safety Appreciation luncheon organized by the Cobb Chamber, the Cobb County's bravest were rightly honored for their courage and service. The event, held this past Monday at the Coca-Cola Roxy in Atlanta, recognized several public safety workers including a former police officer, firefighters, and several others providing essential services to the community.
The standout recognition went to former Cobb Police Officer Thomas Weldon, who, according to Cobb County's announcement, received the Medal of Valor. Weldon, with his actions to confront an armed robber at a gas station back in September 2023, did so protecting the lives within without firing a shot. Not left behind on the honor roll, Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services Company 7, B shift, won the Award of Merit for their bravery, rescuing three individuals from a fiery blaze in July of the same year.
The gathering also highlighted the bridge-building efforts of Cobb Police Sgt. William Nerio in improving relations between the police department and the Hispanic community. His role as the Hispanic liaison for the Community Affairs Unit led to the organization of a summit between the police chief and Latin American representatives, an effort that fetched him the Distinguished Achievement Award.
Public Safety Appreciation Week, which lasts until Oct. 11, began with the ceremony. It is a time for community residents to show their gratitude for those who work tirelessly to ensure their safety. Awards were distributed to select personnel across varying departments, marking the efforts of individuals such as Marietta Police Officer Isaac Moore and Kennesaw State University's Department of Public Safety and Police Director Tanya Smith, who both received the Award of Merit for their meritorious services.
Further commendations were given, including a Medal of Valor to Kennesaw Police Officer David Hubbart and the Smyrna Fire Department's Engine 3. With the nature of their work demanding confidentiality, an undercover officer from the Acworth Police Department was discreetly honored as Employee of the Year. More details and the full list of nominees can be found on the Cobb County Public Safety news page.