Indianapolis – Yesterday afternoon, the Indiana State Police Department held an awards and recognition ceremony in Indianapolis. The ceremony publicly recognized the achievements and deeds of self-sacrifice and accomplishments that all too often go without the proper recognition. Employees from around the state, were honored for their dedication to service, bravery, devotion to the department and the citizens of Indiana. Two troopers assigned to the Indiana State Police Peru Post were recognized at the ceremony.
Master Trooper Joe Swisher received a Commendation Award for his actions on March 11, 2016. On that day, Master Trooper Joseph Swisher contacted the Indiana State Police Peru District dispatch notifying them that he had observed an unknown female climb over the protective rail of the Wayne Street Bridge, in the city of Peru.
Master Trooper Swisher made contact with the female who stated she was going to harm herself by jumping into the Wabash River. Master Trooper Swisher remained calm and began a conversation with the young female. She stated that no one cared about her. Master Trooper Swisher immediately responded that he in fact cared about her and was willing to help her get through this situation.
Master Trooper Swisher eventually gained the female’s trust and extended an open hand. He assisted her over the rail to safety. Emergency medical personnel and Peru Police officers also assisted Master Trooper Swisher in bringing the female to safety.
Trooper Matthew Moon received a Lifesaving Award for his actions on June 2, 2016. On that day, Trooper Matthew Moon overheard Cass County Central Dispatch broadcast a reported large ground fire in the town of Galveston. Trooper Moon proceeded to the scene and observed a garage along with a vehicle, between the garage and a house, become fully engulfed in flames. The Galveston Fire Department arrived shortly thereafter and immediately went to the rear of the garage to extinguish the fire.
Trooper Moon noticed that there were no people standing outside of the house whose garage was on fire. Also there were no lights visible inside the two story home. Trooper Moon asked Cass Sheriff’s Deputy Brenton McDonald if he was able to contact anyone from the house. The deputy said no. Trooper Moon began knocking loudly on the residence. He also received no response from inside.
The car that was on fire exploded spraying fire and shrapnel in all directions. Moments later, Trooper Moon saw a light come on inside the nearby house. A male then came to the door appearing extremely disoriented. The male asked what was going on. Trooper Moon advised him that there was a fire and everyone needed to evacuate the house. The male told Trooper Moon and Deputy McDonald that his wife and baby were asleep in an upstairs bedroom.
Trooper Moon and Deputy McDonald immediately went to the second floor and located the mother and child. The officers were able to evacuate them to safety. The male resident stated that his family did not know there was a fire or notice that the house was filling with smoke. He was extremely appreciative of the officers’ efforts.
Two photos attached.1) Master Trooper Joe Swisher 2) Trooper Matt Moon
