Reprinted from the Press Of Atlantic City 03/21/2012
Two Stafford Township Police Officers received awards this month after fellow officers recognized them for their daily efforts while on duty. Police Officer Keith Oler was selected as the department’s Police Office of the Year, said Police Chief Joseph Giberson. Oler returned to work in July 2010 after he was laid off in March 2010 as part of a cost saving measure during a budget shortfall in the township. Last month, Oler’s fellow officers voted him Officer of the Year for having demonstrated quality work ethics, a high degree of professionalism, motivation, dedication, and integrity. The award also recognizes officers for enhancing the police image and distinguishing themselves with the law enforcement community. Oler has been on the force since October 2007 and previously worked in the Ship Bottom Police Department. “He is the epitome of all the qualifications for this award. The big thing for this award is enhancing police image and Keith does that every day”, Giberson said. Oler said he is honored to have received the award, especially since he was selected by his fellow officers. It’s an eye opener for me to be laid off and to come back and get this award. It’s tough to explain. It’s an honor” Oler said.
DARE Officer Chris Fritz received the Rick Drappi Award named in honor of Drappi a former Stafford Township police officer who was killed in an off-duty motor vehicle accident. The award is given to a police officer who has shown unselfish dedication, pride and concern for others. “Chris is the all-around officer. No matter what the circumstances are he is always there to help. You’ll never get a no from him. He’s dedicated to the community, the children and schools, “Giberson said. Fritz said he takes a lot of heat from fellow officers through the year because as the township’s community policing officer he’s not on the road performing typical patrol duties. “It’s nice at the end of the year they’re the ones voting for me. It’s pretty cool that the guys respect what I do,” Fritz said
