[ccfic caption-text format="plaintext"]
On September 12, the Board of Selectmen recognized two Police Explorers for each earning The President’s Volunteer Service Award: Mr. Michael Forde, a member of the Westwood High’s Class of 2017, and Mr. Adam Ganz of Sharon High’s Class of 2016.
The Westwood Police Explorer program is one of certifying organizations for the President’s Volunteer Service Award. The award recognizes United States citizens and lawfully admitted permanent residents who have achieved the required number of hours of service over a twelve month time period.
Mr. Forde earned the Gold Level. In order to qualify, recipients must volunteer 250 hours. Since joining last year, he has attended every meeting and helped the officers with traffic and crowd control at every town event. Additionally, because of Mr. Forde’s exemplary attitude, as well as his remarkable dedication, last June, the post advisors awarded him “Explorer of the Year.” In addition to the gold pin with the Seal of the President, he will wear a blue ribbon as part of his insignia.
Mr. Ganz earned the Silver Level from his 175 hours of service between Westwood’s Explorer Post, Team Rival with Norfolk District Attorney Morrissey, and the Foxboro Fire Department as a Fire Explorer. This he did in addition to earning his Eagle Scout Award, as well as working a part-time job.
Sergeant Paul Sicard, Westwood’s Explorer Post Advisor, explained how proud he is of both Michael’s and Adam’s accomplishments: “In today’s day and age, despite all their other commitments, it’s remarkable to see these young adults give back in so many ways.”
The Explorer program is sponsored and run by Chief Jeffrey Silva and the officers of the Westwood Police Department. It is open to students from Westwood and surrounding towns, ages 14 through 21, and provides young adults interested in a career in law enforcement with the opportunity to learn from and work for the Westwood Police Department through regular meetings, training sessions, ride-alongs, community service projects, and more.
Next year, Michael hopes to major in criminal justice at one of the Boston-area colleges. Adam is currently attending Norwich Academy for Engineering. For more information about the Westwood Police Department’s Explorer Program, visit the “Services” tab of westwoodpd.org, or contact Sgt. Paul Sicard at (781-320-1000).
