The City of New Braunfels Police and Fire Departments honored two exemplary employees during a ceremony held today by the New Braunfels Noon Lions Club. The Sheriff James Robert Holder First Responder Awards were held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, recognizing three local first responders from the Police Department, Fire Department, and Comal County Sheriff’s Office.
New Braunfels Police Department
Officer Emily Mann from the New Braunfels Police Department was selected for this year’s August Hampe Police Officer of the Year Award. Officer Mann has been with NBPD for 10 years and, since 2021, has been assigned as a member of the US Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force. During her tenure with NBPD, Officer Mann has received numerous commendations and awards, including a Life Saving Award, and has also received a Letter of Recognition for Superior Performance by Eduardo Sanchez Jr., the Supervisory Deputy US Marshall. Beyond her role as a valued member of the department and the Task Force, Officer Mann also volunteers her time to participate in annual community events including Kops & Kids and the Blue Santa Program.
New Braunfels Fire Department
Firefighter Randy Diaz from the New Braunfels Fire Department was selected for this year’s Ernest Alves, Jr. Firefighter of the Year Award. Firefighter Diaz has been with NBFD for approximately 18 years and is currently assigned to the NBFD Training Division. In recent years he has become a Field Training Paramedic and helps with the on-duty training of EMT’s and Paramedics. He was recently honored by the 100 Club of Comal County, was named the 2023 Firefighter of the Year by the New Braunfels Fire Department, and he has been nominated for a Medal of Valor Award for rescuing a driver from a burning vehicle while off duty. He’s a member of the newly formed Peer Support Team, the Life and Fire Safety (LAFS) program which educates elementary school kids about fire safety through clown performances, and he is a longtime member of the New Braunfels Firefighters Pipes & Drums program.
These two exemplary City employees, as well as Deputy Simon Aquino from the Comal County Sheriff’s Office who received the Ed Murphy Memorial Deputy of the Year Award, each received a plaque honoring their dedication and service. The Noon Lions Club also made a $500 donation in each of the recipient’s names to the 100 Club of Comal County. To learn more about the Noon Lions Club, visit www.newbraunfelslions.com.
