The Scenic City Optimist Club presented its 2016 "Respect for Law Officer of the Year Award" at a luncheon held Friday at the Chattanoogan Hotel. This year's honoree is Deputy Jeff Gadd, a traffic investigator with the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office.
Deputy Gadd is credited with single-handedly carrying wounded Chattanooga Police Officer Dennis Pedigo to safety during the July 16, 2015, terrorist attack at the Navy Operational Support Center on Amnicola Highway.
Pedigo was wounded during the ensuing gunfight
This year's award is presented to recognize the bravery exhibited by Deputy Gadd as he went to his fellow officer's aid in spite of a barrage of small arms fire.
Sheriff Jim Hammond said, "I am very proud of Deputy Gadd and his willingness to risk his life to save one of his brothers in harm's way." The sheriff continued, "His brave and heroic actions that day exemplify the mission of the Sheriff's Office and proves his willingness to defend his fellow officers. This is a very important and commendable distinction and one that Investigator Gadd is very worthy of receiving."
These words were echoed by Chief Deputy Allen Branum at the ceremony honoring Investigator Gadd. He said, "We are extremely proud of Investigator Gadd and his actions that placed his life on the line to save a fellow officer. We are not only proud of these actions, but also of the work he does on a daily basis."
The Respect for Law Officer of the Year Award is rooted to a 1965 meeting between former FBI Director, J. Edgar Hoover and International Optimist Club International President, Carl Bowen. From this meeting Optimist Clubs created the Respect for Law Program. Currently more than 1,500 Optimist Clubs participate each year in recognizing local law enforcement officers who go above and beyond the call of duty.
Hamilton County Juvenile Court Clerk and past president of the Scenic City Optimist Club Gary Behler is the long-time chairman of the local program.