The Veterans of Foreign Wars organization held an awards ceremony this week, on Dec. 1. Pell City Police Corporal Jesse Burgos received the honor of Officer of the Year.

The VFW is an organization dedicated to serving and assisting local veterans who have served in combat zones. Each year, they request nominations for law enforcement officers who have stood out throughout the year.

“The competition is always tough, so be awarded is a great honor,” Post 4758 Commander TL Miller said. “We read all nominations and chose the best of the best to receive this award.”

“It is truly an honor to have received this award but this would not have been possible without all of the men and women who work with me every day to keep our community safe. I’d like to thank my wife Melissa for always believing in me and all my friends and family for always standing by my side. I’d also like to thank the parents of the students in the Pell City school system for allowing me the opportunity to work with their children. I promise you I will keep doing whatever I have to do protect our students and the city,” Burgos said.