Three public servants were recently honored by the local post of the American Legion.

KingfisherCountySheriff’s Office’s Jonathan Riedlinger was presented with the Deputy of the Year Award, Justin Conner of the Kingfisher Police Department received the Police Officer of the Year Award and Mitch Tollefson of the Kingfisher Fire Department earned the Firefighter of the Year Award.

Ken Tollison, Kingfisher Keith Lowry-Henry Ellyson Post 5 commander, made the presentations last week.

Their plaques read: “In recognition of exceptional service to your community, state and nation.”

Each of the three was nominated by their respective departments.

“It was a great honor to nominate Justin Conner for this award,” said Kingfisher Police Chief David Catron.

Conner has his duties with the department, but earlier this school year was hired by Kingfisher Public Schools to serve as a resource officer as well.

“He not only puts in long days at the school as a resource officer, but then comes to the police depart-ment and works his normal shifts on the street,” Catron noted.

Sheriff Dennis Banther rattled off a long list of responsibilities and duties that are seen to by Riedlinger, which includes being a certified CLEET instructor and various trainings among other.

“Many have seen the video we released of the quadruple homicide scene, in November 2022,” Banther said of the incident at a grow facility near Lacey. “This video was captured on Deputy Riedlinger’s body cam and shows the calmness under pressure he displays. Deputy Riedlinger led the entry team and was able to clear more than 85 buildings that evening. This ensured the safety of others who were coming to the site to perform the homicide investigation.”

Riedlinger returned the next morning to complete another sweep.

“These actions display professionalism, integrity, calmness under extreme pressure and a willingness to serve,” Banther said.

Tollefson also has a long list of responsibilities at the fire department, including the FF1 program through Kingfisher High School.

Fire Chief Tony Stewart said Tollefson has unique leadership skills among several other qualities.

“Mitch is one of those guys who can see a problem and will, without being asked, tackle it and work it out. He can think outside the box because that’s in his wheelhouse,” Stewart said.

“He loves to train, teach and help others be the best they can be. Our younger men look up to Mitch with respect and honor.”

The American Legion has made the recognition of the local officers and firemen an annual tradition.

“Kingfisher American Legion Post 5 joins Legion posts around the state and nation to honor the American heroes who put themselves in danger to keep us all safe,” said Post 5 Past Commander Dr. A.J. Johnson.