BUNNELL, Fla. – The City of Bunnell and the Bunnell Police Department celebrated a milestone as Chief David Brannon was presented with the William B. Berger Outstanding Chief Executive Officer of the Year Award during the Florida Police Chiefs Association Annual Awards Banquet.
Presented by the Florida Police Chiefs Association, this prestigious award recognizes a law enforcement chief executive who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, outstanding performance, and an unwavering commitment to advancing the law enforcement profession throughout the State of Florida. It is considered one of the Association’s highest honors.
Chief Brannon’s vision, integrity, and servant leadership have made a lasting impact on the Bunnell Police Department. Through his commitment to professional excellence, innovation, accountability, and community partnerships, he has helped build a culture where officers and professional staff are empowered to serve with pride while strengthening the trust of the community we are honored to protect.
Sharing in this unforgettable evening were Chief Brannon’s family, City Manager Dr. Alvin Jackson, Vice Mayor John Rogers, Mrs. Renae Rogers, Commissioner Pete Young, Commissioner David Atkinson, and Lieutenant Shane Groth, who had the distinct honor of nominating Chief Brannon for this well-deserved recognition.
Upon accepting the award, Chief Brannon reflected on the honor by saying,
“I give all honor and glory to God for every blessing and opportunity He placed in my life. Receiving the William B. Berger Chief Executive Officer of the Year Award leaves me deeply humbled. And with Lieutenant Shane Groth, who nominated me, my family, members of our City leadership, and so many respected law enforcement professionals present to share this moment with me—I’m so grateful for their love and support.
No chief earns an honor like this alone. My family at home gave me unconditional love, patience, and support throughout this journey. My City of Bunnell family also stood beside me throughout the past four years and trusted me with the tremendous responsibility of serving as their Chief of Police.
This award belongs to our entire team—our officers and professional staff who come to work each day ready to serve, protect, and place the needs of others before their own. They make the Bunnell Police Department one of the best places to work and one of the finest law enforcement agencies anywhere. Every accomplishment we celebrate comes from a shared commitment, a team effort, and a genuine love for the people we serve.
When I first came to Bunnell, I coined a simple phrase, ‘We Love Bunnell.’ Those words remain just as true today. Our officers put their lives on the line every day to keep this community safe. There’s no greater love than someone willing to sacrifice themselves for others. We are more than coworkers—we are a family, united by one mission: ‘Our Family Protecting Yours Since 1913.’ Nothing could describe who we are or what we stand for more accurately.
I accept this incredible honor with profound gratitude, but I proudly share it with every member of our Bunnell Police Department, our City leadership, our community, and the family who supports me every step of the way.”
While this award recognizes Chief Brannon’s outstanding leadership, it also represents the dedication of an entire department, the unwavering support of his family, the partnership of our City leadership, and the community we are privileged to serve.
Please join us in congratulating Chief David Brannon on this remarkable and well-deserved achievement. We are proud of your leadership, your vision, and your continued commitment to the men and women of the Bunnell Police Department and the citizens of Bunnell.
