On March 3rd, 2021, the Swatara Township Police Department held a virtual Awards Ceremony to recognize several police officers and two civilians. Chief Darrell Reider and Swatara Township Board President, Commissioner Tom Connolly, recognized multiple officers for acts of Heroism, Merit, and Distinguished Service. 

 

One officer in particular received the Department's highest award, the Medal of Valor. Detective Sergeant Ashley Baluh received this prestigious award for her actions during an incident that occurred on route 283 during the morning of January 31, 2021. On that date, a male had taken his 8 month old child away from his mother, and was driving recklessly through the Harrisburg area. Eventually, the vehicle he was driving rolled onto its side along the shoulder of 283 and was immediately surrounded by several police officers. Fearing for the safety of the infant, Det. Sgt. Baluh removed her ballistic vest and climbed into the vehicle to protect the child, while the male suspect was still inside of the vehicle. Because of her quick and selfless action, she was able to clear the baby's mouth of broken glass and safely remove him from the vehicle. Several other officers received awards in regards to this incident, including officers from Lower Swatara Township, Highspire Borough, and the Pennsylvania State Police. All of the involved officers also received Proclamations of Heroism from the Swatara Township Board of Commissioners and Commendatory Certificates from State Representative Thomas Mehaffie.

 

Four Swatara Township Officers received the Department's 2nd highest award, the Medal of Heroism. Recipients of this award were Cpl. Tim Bloss, K-9 J.T., Ofc. Anthony Glass, and Ofc. Ryan Flenke. These officers were involved in a traffic stop along I-83 South at 4:42 in the morning on December 20, 2020. During the stop, one of the occupants fought with officers and fled across the southbound lanes and into the northbound lanes. Officers seized him in the northbound lanes where he continued to resist, resulting in the deployment of K-9 J.T. The Officers worked to gain control of the suspect while tractor trailers and other northbound vehicles quickly drove through the location, narrowly missing all parties involved. Fortunately, the suspect was successfully taken into custody and removed from the highway.

 

Citizens Mr. Wayne Scott and Mr. Mark Beatty were also recognized during the ceremony for their years of honorable service as members of the Police-Citizen Advisory Council. Their service helped to ensure the exchange of information and ideas between members of the community and the Police Department.

 

Congratulations to all of the award recipients!! Thank you for your service!!