Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Dwight Johnson was awarded the 2023 OSSA Search and Rescue Coordinator of the Year.
Johnson received the honor on Dec. 7 at the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association’ annual awards banquet in Bend.
Nominations for this award are submitted to the Oregon State Sheriff’s Office from sheriff’s offices around the state and are reviewed by the OSSA Search and Rescue Advisory Council. A nominee must be a SAR Coordinator or manager who has distinguished themselves through contributions to local, regional, or statewide Search & Rescue programs or an individual effort exclusively within a SAR Program or external partners who assist in Search and Rescue efforts for the citizens of Oregon.
The Selection Committee reviews the following criteria:
- Exceptional effort and or accomplishments in fulfilling the responsibilities of the nominee’s assignment
- Outstanding accomplishment to public safety and service, and to the Sheriff’s Office
- Contributions that are significant to other employees and/or citizens
The Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office issued the following statement:
Sgt. Dwight Johnson has a lifelong experience in law enforcement and search and rescue. He has dedicated his life to helping others in need. As the SAR Coordinator, he passionately and humbly shares his wealth of knowledge with others. He is truly one of the very best and we are proud to have him as part of our team.
