Two Bowling Green Police Division officers were praised for their lifesaving efforts on Monday, while the legacy of another member of the BGPD family was also honored.
During Monday’s council meeting, Police Chief Tony Hetrick said that on Aug. 19, during a Firefly Nights event, Lt. Ryan Tackett and Sgt. Jeffrey Lowery were on duty having a meal break at Qdoba downtown. They observed a young woman who appeared to be choking. Lowery alerted Tackett, and Tackett approached and asked if she was. She indicated she was choking, and Tackett performed the Heimlich maneuver on her, and Lowery called for an ambulance. By the time the ambulance arrived, she was breathing clearly again.
Hetrick said that the facts of the incident were investigated and a board of review determined the two officers should be given the Meritorious Service Award.
“You have both gained the appreciation, admiration of the entire community,” State Rep. Haraz Ghanbari, R-Perrysburg, told the two officers.
Additionally recognized was the late Civil Enforcement Technician Kirk Cowan. His family was presented with a plaque honoring his service.
Hetrick said that Cowan was a wonderful part of the police division, and that he wanted to let his family know mow much he meant to them. Hetrick said Cowan was a 20-year employee of the BGPD, was “the consummate gentleman” and is missed.
Mayor Mike Aspacher called Cowan a man of integrity and character who is missed in the city every day.
Municipal Administrator Lori Tretter said that Cowan served with professionalism, kindness and caring, and “he is missed by everyone.”
Reading a statement, Ghanbari said Cowan “will be remembered fondly by all who knew and loved him” and “it is my hope that those he left behind can find strength in the love of family … and solace in the memory of this truly unique man.”
