(PEMBROKE, ON) - The Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) recently recognized two long-serving Auxiliary Officers with service awards. 

Auxiliary Sgt. Paul Leeson was awarded the “Kruger Family Award” for excellence in Auxiliary Policing in recognition of leadership, awareness of community needs, good citizenship and crime prevention. Aux. Sgt. Derek Smith recently retired from the Auxiliary Unit and was recognized for his service and dedication with a 20-year service award. 

UOV OPP Operations Manager Staff Sgt. Chirs Miller stated, “Thank you to Aux. Sgt. Leeson and Aux. Sgt Smith (retired) for their dedication, exceptional service and commitment to the communities we serve.”

Auxiliary members are dedicated civilian volunteers who assist regular OPP officers with many tasks. Their duties may include patrols with regular members and assisting with community events, seat belt clinics, R.I.D.E initiatives, safety displays, presentations, victim assistance and ceremonial duties. 

To become an OPP Auxiliary member, applicants are required to complete a series of tests which include an aptitude and psychological assessment. If successful, applicants must complete a recruitment orientation course. The training course covers powers of arrest, use of force, OPP policy, note taking, traffic control, firearms and radio training. Those interested in learning more about the OPP Auxiliary program are encouraged to visit the OPP website at www.opp.ca