Crown Trophy

Recently, #FargoPD Officer Spencer Henning was recognized by the Northern Lights Council, Scouting America with the SSG Andrew Nelson Award for Outstanding Leadership. Named in honor of SSG Andrew Nelson, an Eagle Scout who dedicated his life to serving others before losing his life while serving with the 82nd Airborne Division in Iraq in 2007, the award recognizes individuals who demonstrate a commitment to servant leadership and making their communities better. For Officer Henning, this recognition carries a personal connection. Having been involved in Scouting himself while growing up, the values of service and leadership have been a part of his life long before his career with the FPD. It’s meaningful to see those values continue to shape the way he serves others today, both as a police officer and as a member of our community and the nation's military. Chief Travis Stefonowicz also participated in a panel discussion during the council’s annual leadership event, sharing his perspective on leadership and service. Congratulations, Officer Henning, on this well-deserved recognition. We’re proud to see the impact of your commitment to serving others honored in such a meaningful way!

Today, the #FargoPD had the honor of recognizing three community members whose actions helped save the lives of others. Chauncey Ost and Lee Preyma received Citizen Citations of Distinguished Service Awards for their actions on June 20, when they helped save an 11-year-old boy who had been pulled unconscious from a hotel pool and was not breathing or and did not have a pulse. Chauncey immediately recognized the emergency and began CPR, drawing on his EMT training. Lee stepped in to help, and the two worked together through multiple rounds of CPR until the boy regained a pulse and began breathing again. They stayed with him until first responders arrived, providing care, reassurance and critical information. Lee was unable to attend today’s ceremony, but was recognized for his actions. The boy’s father also joined the ceremony virtually, making the recognition even more meaningful. We also presented Amy Strand with a Citizen Citation of Distinguished Service Award for her actions on May 6, when she responded to a 16-month-old child who was choking and unresponsive. Amy immediately provided life-saving care, helping clear the child’s airway and restore consciousness before first responders arrived. In each of these situations, someone needed help and these community members stepped forward. Their quick thinking, compassion and willingness to act made a profound difference. We are grateful to Chauncey, Lee and Amy for stepping forward when it mattered most. Thank you for making a difference!