Six police officers, including two based in Grays, and three members of the public have received Chief Constable's commendations during a special ceremony in Chelmsford.
Family, friends and special guests including Jane Gardener, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, looked on as the attendees received commendations from Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh, one of the highest accolades a Chief Constable can give.
Among those commended were DC Joe Ali and PC Rory Phillips who were recognised for their dedication, commitment and professionalism when leading a distressed man to safety from a rooftop.
The pair, based in Grays, were recognised alongside security officers Megan Gargate, and Michael Plakhtienko.
Megan has recently joined the force as a Police Constable whilst Michael is completing his Certificate in Knowledge of Policing (CKP).
Sgt Michael Latham and PC Thomas Clinton were also commended for their actions as the pair risked their lives to rescue a vulnerable man.
In July 2015, the officers attended Thames Estuary on Canvey after receiving reports of a man in distress.
Without a thought for their own safety, the officers waded into the water, battling strong currents and windy conditions to reach the man.
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After brining him to safety, it was established that the man had sustained numerous injuries and was in the early stages of hyperthermia.
Without the timely intervention of both officers, it is unlikely he would have survived.
Two members of the public also received commendations for their part in saving the man.
Working together, they acted swiftly to pull the man back from the ledge to stop him from jumping. He was then taken to hospital to receive emergency treatment.
Pc Warren Lamb was commended for his dedication, professionalism and bravery in saving the life of a man intent on taking his own life.
In September 2016, Pc Lamb attended an incident following reports of a man threatening to jump from a multistory car park.
The officer quickly engaged the man in conversation, gaining his trust and developing a rapport with him. After speaking to him for an hour, the man was brought to safety and taken to hospital.
Chief Constable Stephen Kavanagh said: “These commendations are really important to me and represent the best traditions and values of 180 years of British policing.
“The standard of bravery and commitment that demands a commendation is incredibly high; you are all remarkable people who do remarkable things to keep the people of Essex safe.
“Essex Police doesn’t exist just because of our police officers and staff.
"Today is an opportunity to say thank you to those partners, parents and children at home who’s loved ones miss all the dinners, all the school open evenings or work late in the line of duty.”
Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, Jane Gardener said: “I’m delighted to be here today.
"One of the most enjoyable parts of my job is getting the opportunity to meet officers who go the extra mile for this organisation on a daily basis.
“I would like to say thank you for the outstanding contribution you have made in a range of difficult circumstances.
"One of the things I’ve always found with the officers I see is their absolute compassion in spite of the challenging situations they are confronted with.”
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