Port of Seattle Police Honor 2009 Officer of the Year

Officer Herb Gonzales is honored as the Port of Seattle Police Officer of the Year for 2009. The five year veteran of the department was recognized for his outstanding service to the community, including his efforts with the Port's Gang Enforcement Team and courageous actions in his earning the Life Saving Award.

Gonzales, a resident of Bothell, was recognized as a valued member of the Port Unified Resources in Gang Enforcement Team (P.U.R.G.E.). His creation of the Gang Intelligence book assists officers in accumulating gang intelligence, resource development and gang prevention.

In addition, Gonzales went beyond the call of duty in assisting a motorist suffering from a heart attack by rendering CPR until aid units arrived. His actions were recognized when he was honored with the Department's Life Saving Award.

"Officer Gonzales has represented the finest tradition of service throughout his tenure here at the Port," said Port of Seattle Police Chief Colleen Wilson.

About Port of Seattle Police Department
The Port of Seattle Police Department consists of over 100 officers responsible for the security and safety of facilities stretching from Sea-Tac Airport to the Seattle waterfront including Harbor Island, Pier 69, and Interbay. The men and women of the Port of Seattle Police Department are committed to providing professional law enforcement services, protecting the rights of individuals, preventing crime, and building community partnerships. The department has many specially trained teams, including bomb squad, hostage negotiation, bicycle patrol, marine and dive team, explosive and narcotics K-9 units, SWAT team and various task forces.