Last Friday evening, the Maple Grove Police Department celebrated their annual Reserve Unit banquet, as reported in a recent post on their official Facebook page. The event recognized the voluntary efforts of the unit's members, who collectively dedicated over 1,900 hours of service throughout 2024. Mayor Mark Steffenson was present to offer words of appreciation on behalf of the City Council.
During the banquet, Chief Werner took the stage to honor individual contributors within the unit. "I was proud to specifically recognize Lieutenant Sherie Hermann who was promoted in 2024," he said, highlighting her key role in shaping team spirit. Moreover, there was a nod to Fatima Sakor, the unit's newest member, who initiated her journey at the Police Citizens’ Academy. Werner also praised Reserve Officer Kathryn Gazelka for not just serving the community but also working to actively include a student worker in the 2025 MN Polar Plunge.
As the evening proceeded, the unit celebrated its collective successes and the personal milestones achieved within. The officials and families present bore witness to the significance of the reserve unit's contributions. It was a moment to reaffirm publicly the commitment that the Maple Grove Police Department and its volunteers have made to serve and protect their community. They all look forward to maintaining this legacy of service in the years ahead.
Congratulations poured in for the entire Reserve Unit on a successful year, reflecting the sentiment that the unit's dedication is a cornerstone of the city's safety and community engagement. The Maple Grove Police Department's announcement concluded with an expression of joy for the occasion, shared amongst the officers and their loved ones gathered to celebrate yet another outstanding year.
