Gwinnett Daily Post

DULUTH -- Officials with the Duluth Police Department held an annual awards luncheon last week at the Duluth Public Safety Center. Locals and police alike were honored during the Jan. 25 ceremony.

Duluth Police Maj. Don Woodruff said it's an event where the community "is always very supportive."

During the gathering, Duluth Chief of Police gave out awards to commend the following people: Crystal Finura, Officer of the Year; Terry Stewart, Medal of Valor for Meritorious Service; Lt. Jimmy Purvis, "Top Gun" Award in marksmanship; Sgt. William Petty, Supervisor of the Year; and Tom Wallace, Civilian Employee of the Year.

Others honored during the event included Lt. Jacquelyn Hood, Lea Elem, Lt. Chuck Wilson, Amber Snavely, Chris Quarles, Jennifer Olds and Teria Russell.

Woodruff said the event is "just another example of how good this community is to us ... I've been here for 24 years now, and they've always been like this."

The Duluth Public Safety Center is located at 3276 Buford Highway.

For more information, visit www.duluthpd.com.