Officer Gary Williams has been named the Farmville Police Department’s 2015 Officer of the Year.

According to a press release, Williams became a Farmville police officer in 2012 after retiring from the Virginia State Police, where he had a successful 27-year career.

“Gary is very deserving of this award,” said Farmville Police Chief Curtis Davis.

“The comments mentioned in the award just scratch the surface of what he does every day. His commitment to treating people fairly and his ability to care about the community speaks volumes about him as a police officer and a person.”

“It’s humbling,” Williams said. “It’s a lot of folks here who deserve it more than me, but it’s an honor to do it. I enjoy the job.”

Williams retired as a master trooper from Virginia State Police. He was assigned to Prince Edward and Appomattox counties.

Williams “obviously does not consider the Farmville Police Department as a retirement job. During his time here, Gary has received high praise for his professionalism and work ethic. He is always willing to work assignments and take on the difficult tasks that often are required of the job, such as tracking down wanted persons and serving outstanding warrants,” the release stated.

Williams is worthy of the award, not just because of his professional performance, “but (because of) the many tasks he undertakes to foster community policing.”

Last year, Williams participated in various child safety seat installations, spent time reading to children at daycare centers, attended multiple community events and worked on many problem-solving initiatives for the betterment of the community.

According to the release, Williams assisted Officer Christy Booth to help establish a Farmville chapter of Help Save the Next Girl, which seeks to bring “awareness to the threat and prevention of abductions. The officers partnered with a local sorority to host a large campus event at Longwood University that was well-attended.”

Williams was also instrumental in the reestablishment of the Police Explorers Program.

“The explorer program requires a significant dedication of time to meet program guidelines. This program plays a vital role in helping to introduce students to a possible career in the law enforcement profession. Mentors in this program have a great opportunity to help shape the future of law enforcement in our nation. In a few short months the program has expanded from five members to 15 active members.”

“While many of the Farmville police officers work diligently with community service projects and they each deserve recognition, we can only select one to be officer of the year,” the release stated.

Williams’ commitment to the department and the Farmville community is “an example of the goals of the agency. He is a full-service officer to the community who does not focus simply on the enforcement of laws but also the improvement of the quality of life for all citizens and the future of our profession.”

Nothing can compare to his friendly demeanor, compassion and the genuine respect he shows to everyone he meets, the release stated.

“He represents the things that make a true public servant. We are very proud to name him our 2015 Officer of the Year.”