American Legion Post 94 honors Thurston County professionals for service excellence 

Six individuals from Thurston County’s public safety and service sectors were honored by the American Legion R.V. Van Schoick Lacey Post 94 for their work in protecting and serving the community.

The following is a list of the recipients:  

• Sgt. Kevin Landwehrle, City of Lacey Police Department — Law Enforcement Officer of the Year 

• Lt. David Perez, Lacey Fire District 3 — Firefighter of the Year 

• Detective Kimber Hunt, Thurston County Sheriff’s Office — Law Enforcement Officer of the Year 

• Lisa Goss, Thurston 911 Communications — 911 Operator of the Year 

• Calvin Abegglen, Olympic Ambulance of Thurston County — Emergency Medical Technician of the Year 

• Linda Birkett, Lacey Veterans Services Hub — Volunteer of the Year Award 

The individuals were honored during the American Legion Law and Order Awards Banquet in September, an event that honors community members who “go above and beyond in service,” according to a statement about the event from the City of Lacey on Oct. 9.

The American Legion's banquet gathered local officials, first responders and community members in recognition of exemplary public service. 

Attending dignitaries included Department Commander Al Jensen, Department Adjutant Barbara Lombaro, Sons of the American Legion Commander Chris Thomas, Department of Washington Auxiliary President Cindy Smith and Fourth District Commander Doug Richardson. 

Local leadership present included Thurston County Sheriff Derek Sanders, Lacey Police Deputy Chief Robert Hollis, Lacey Fire District Chief Jennifer Schmidt, Olympic Ambulance Chief of Operations Derek Smith, Thurston 911 Communications Deputy Director Jonnica Elkins and Lacey Veterans Services Hub representative Cheryl Seat.