FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – Commission and council meetings can be packed with people or devoid of public participation depending on the topic.
On Monday evening a healthy attendance at the Bunnell City Commission meeting marked proud families and friends ready to see their loved ones honored during the Bunnell Police Department’s annual awards ceremony.
Led by Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon, officers and community liaisons proudly took their place at the podium when called, to be recognized by Chief Brannon for their service.
- Gerard “Jay” Lampiasi, Public Safety Officer
- Rommel Scalf, Public Safety Officer
- Elisa Terranova, Administrative Assistant
- Officer Richard Coury
- Officer Alex Kilpatrick
- Officer Michelle Wichman
- Sergeant Alton Ogden
- Sergeant Dawn Harris
- Sergeant Lyle Tripp
Service Above Self Award
- Detective Sergeant Shane Groth
- Sheriff Rick Staly, FCSO
- Commander Ryan Emery, FCSO
- Commander Scott Vedder, FCSO
- Jim Grove, Flagler County Assist
- Lacy Martin
- David Lydon, Flagler County Veteran Services
- Sergeant Lyle Tripp, BPD
- PSO Gerard “Jay” Lampiasi, BPD
- Matthieu Johnson, City of Palm Coast
- Battalion Chief Dan VanDeusen, FCFR (not present)
- Gary Owen’s, American Legion (not present)
- Lili Tuggle-Weir (not present)
- Matt Crews, Woody’s Bar-B-Q (not present)
- Detective Jeff Traylor
Members of the Bunnell Police Department surprised Chief Brannon with a Servant Leadership Award of their own.
“Chief Brannon exemplifies servant leadership in every aspect of his role within the police department. He wholeheartedly embraces our agency mission ‘Service Above Self’. He consistently demonstrates a selfless commitment to serving the community. Despite his many accomplishments, Chief Brannon remains humble and never seeks recognition for himself, always putting the needs of others first,” said Detective Sergeant Shane Groth.
“Under Chief Brannon’s guidance the police department has flourished into a model of effectiveness and professionalism. He leads by example, instilling a sense of pride and purpose in his team, and fostering a culture of empowerment and growth. Chief Brannon consistently provides a motiving climate that encourages officer development, teamwork and innovation. His dedication to the agency’s mission and values is unwavering, setting the standard for excellence in law enforcement.”
“As a result of his leadership, the morale and culture within this department have experienced a remarkable transformation. His staff is proud to present him with this award, recognizing his tireless dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for both community and his team. Chief Brannon’s leadership has not only strengthened the police department, but also positively impacted the perception of law enforcement within the community. He’s truly deserving of this honor. His selfless dedication to serving others serves as inspiration to us all,” said Groth before presenting the award on behalf of the department.
Since taking the helm, Brannon has worked diligently with a gentle, but firm hand, to guide the department from the brink of near collapse, to newfound success. Implementing additional community outreach efforts, hiring additional officers and ensuring staff have the necessary equipment to effectively do their jobs, Brannon has boosted morale for the department.
“It’s an awesome privilege to honor the men and women that patrol our city and keep us safe, and every day put their life on the line for us,” said Bunnell Vice Mayor John Rogers, sharing his appreciation for Chief Brannon.
“He’s doing an amazing job. We’re fully staffed. We have two detectives, we have a sergeant, and they’re solving crimes. They’re putting together cases and they’re working very hard, so we’re proud.”
Working closely with the sister agencies and community partners, Chief Brannon brought pride to the county seat with the creation of the Veterans Day Parade in the fall of 2023, and he honored the parade committee during the ceremony.
“I’m so honored to be recognized for the Chief’s Commendation for 2023. Honestly in all my years I’ve never been formally recognized, so it actually means a lot to me,” shared parade committee member Lacy Martin.
“I do a lot of volunteer work out of the goodness of my heart so I really don’t expect recognition but being here tonight means a lot to me because I really do care about our veterans and all our communities.”
