Norman — American Legion Post 88 honored two police officers and two firefighters Monday night as the post celebrated its 91st birthday.
Don Schulenberg, post commander, said every March the organization tries to recognize police and fire personnel in Norman for their service to the community. Chiefs from various departments select employees for the recognition.
“I’m so honored to have police officers and firefighters come together at our legion,” Schulenberg said.
Post 88 honored Norman Police Department Detective Jeff Puckett, University of Oklahoma Police Officer Justin Kammerer and Norman firefighters Fred Henderson and Tim Terrel.
Dr. James Ryan also was recognized for his 60-year membership with the post. Puckett and Ryan did not attend Monday’s dinner.
Each person received a plaque.
Terrel joined the Norman Fire Department 26 years ago. He has been a driver for the past nine years.
Terrel said he was honored to receive the award Monday from the American Legion.
“Those guys did a great service for the country,” Terrel said.
His co-worker agreed.
“I think it’s a great honor,” Henderson said.
Henderson has been with the Norman Fire Department for 24 years. For the past eight years, he has been assigned to the department as a fire inspector.
“If it wouldn’t have been for the American Legion, I probably wouldn’t be able to do what I do,” Henderson said. “They made sacrifices.”
Kammerer said he was surprised when he learned about the American Legion award.
“It’s nice to be honored by a group of men and women like this,” Kammerer said. “It’s a great honor to represent OU and be recognized by a group of veterans.”
Meghan McCormick 366-3539 mmccormick@normantranscript.com
