ATF

Sample Block

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

FY-05-23

Contacts: Richard Marianos/Sheree L. Mixell

202-927-8500

For Immediate Release

June 22, 2005
 

ATF HONORS ITS BEST AND BRAVEST


WASHINGTON – Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales and Director Carl J. Truscott of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) honored the accomplishments of 42 ATF employees and other federal, state and local law enforcement officials today at the Ninth Annual ATF Awards Ceremony.

"The men and women of ATF have proven their dedication and their commitment to their colleagues, to the law, and to the safety of the American public,” Gonzales said. “I commend them for their professionalism and their courage. It is an honor to serve with them in our shared effort to protect the American people from harm and to build a society of justice and opportunity for all."

“We are recognizing these outstanding men and women for their exemplary work and dedication to the mission of the ATF,” said Truscott. “The awards demonstrate the high standard of excellence and the selfless work that is the hallmark of ATF.”

The awards were presented in seven categories: Medal of Valor, Hostile Action, Distinguished Service, Lifesaving, Director’s Award, Civilian Service Award, and Employee of the Year Awards. Those honored included:

  • Medal of Valor -- A New York Field Division special agent who demonstrated great courage and valor under fire during a firearms and drug trafficking case.
  • Hostile Action Awards: Eleven special agents for coming under direct gunfire while performing their official duties.
  • Distinguished Service Medals: Eight individuals who used exceptional skill, ingenuity, loyalty, or devotion to duty over an extended period of time.
  • Civilian Service Awards: A group of ATF employees who provided invaluable explosives expertise to the military in Iraq, conducted explosives training for the new Iraqi Police Service, and assisted in preparations for the war crimes tribunals against Saddam Hussein and other defendants.
  • Employee of the Year Awards: Nine employees whose continuous, exceptionally high standard of performance or singular contribution greatly advanced ATF’s mission. Any ATF employee can submit a nomination for any of the five Employee of the Year Award categories.

Two former ATF Directors, John W. Magaw and Bradley A. Buckles, were also recognized for their outstanding contributions not only to the bureau, but to the law enforcement community as well.

“While today’s award recipients represent diverse occupations and geographical regions, they all have one thing in common: each makes a vital contribution to law enforcement’s efforts to reduce violent crime, protect the public and contribute to America’s efforts against terrorism,” said Truscott.


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