Saturday, Sept. 27’s fifth annual Back the Blue celebration hosted by the Shelbyville Police Department was a success thanks to dozens of generous donations made by local businesses, sponsors, and individuals. Officers and their families were able to enjoy an evening of food, camaraderie, and recognition of their service. The event was held in the cafeteria of the former Harris Middle School, now the Garland King Museum. More than 75 door prizes were awarded, ranging from TVs and coolers to travel vouchers and firearms, all alongside additional prizes and a bouncy house for children.
Annual awards were presented after an invocation and dinner. Officer of the year was awarded to David Merlo, the Outstanding Leadership Award went to Chucky Merlo, Rising Star was awarded to Jeremiah Guinn, Dispatcher of the Year went to Brian Wagner, Excellence in Professionalism Award went to Samuel Campbell, and the Civilian Award went to Tony Edwards of Rowdy Ranch.
The event was the culmination of months of coordination and planning by Amanda Dye, with support from Ashley Horner, local sponsors, and the community at large. SPD Chief Jan Phillips said Back the Blue is a meaningful annual opportunity to acknowledge employees for their hard work and dedication to public safety.
Department leaders expressed gratitude for the generosity of all the event’s supporters and the effort it took to make the night possible, hoping to keep the Back the Blue tradition alive for years to come.
