The Ripon Police Department recently held its ‘Reflecting on Purpose & Excellence’ annual meeting.

Included were all departments in an effort to once again provide “a powerful opportunity to reaffirm our core mission and celebrate extraordinary service” to the community, according to local police.

Chief Daniel Sauer led a comprehensive review of the RPD’s fundamental organizational principles – mission / vision statements, core values, departmental expectations, and philosophical foundations as being the key elements – while recognizing those who have demonstrated remarkable courage and commitment during the past year.

The 2024 Distinguished Award recipients were:

• Officer Jacob Veltkamp – Medal of Honor, Purple Heart, Life Saving Award.

• Field Training Officer Taylor Hosmer – Medal of Valor, Life Saving Award.

• Officer Travis Sharp – Living Saving Award.

• Community Service Officer Elizabeth Reis – Professional Staff Member of the Year.

These awards underscored RPD’s commitment to excellence, bravery, and dedicated service.

“By recognizing individual achievements, we reinforce our collective mission of protecting and serving the Ripon community with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity,” police said in their social media post.