The Newport News Sheriff’s Office was recognized by American Legion Post 25, which held its Law and Order recognition dinner on Saturday, April 1.
Since the event hadn’t been held since 2019 due to COVID-19, the Post commander gave three awards. The first went to the staff of the NNSO for its community work and dedication to the mission during the first year of the COVID pandemic in 2020. Chief Deputy Col. S. Whitfield accepted the award on behalf of Sheriff Gabe Morgan.
Next to be recognized was the 2021 Deputy of the Year, Cpl. D. Hopkins. He’s been serving the people of Newport News as a valued member of the Sheriff’s Office for more than 25 years. He happily helps others, takes on additional duties, and works extra hours when needed. He is a mentor to younger deputies and is quick to make new deputies feel welcome.
Serving in Courts, Hopkins’ knowledge, professionalism, compassion and positive attitude are recognized by those who have business in court. Judges rely on his expertise to keep order in the courtroom.
The 2022 Deputy of the Year, Deputy T, Raynor, joined the NNSO in December 2020. As he readied for graduation from the Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy, Deputy Raynor was chosen by his classmates to speak at the ceremony. He related stories about the demands of the studies and the excitement he and his fellow students felt as they prepared to return to their agencies.
Deputy Raynor says he chose the NNSO because it gave him the opportunity to begin his law enforcement career in an environment that would challenge him and help him build his character.
The American Legion Post also honored the Newport News Fire Department and its EMTs and firefighters of the year and the Newport News Police Department and its officers of the year for the same time period.
The Law and Order Night festivities included a social, a delicious homemade roast beef dinner and, of course, good fellowship.