AL HJR254

Recognizes Officer James Harton of the Decatur Police Department as a nominee for the 2016 Alabama Legislative Medal of Honor for Law Enforcement, the state's highest law enforcement award for extraordinary courage in the line of duty.

On May 23, 2015, Officer Harton and two other Decatur Police officers (Sergeant John Sharp and Officer Larry Sharpley) responded to an emergency call when a pickup truck plunged into Flint Creek with the driver, Shane Edge, still trapped inside.

The three officers entered the water, broke the windshield, and pulled Mr. Edge to safety while ignoring their own personal safety and the risk of the submerging vehicle.

Commends Officer Harton for his quick thinking, immense courage, diligence, and unwavering commitment to protect and serve the residents of Decatur.

Directs that Officer Harton receive a copy of this resolution as evidence of legislative admiration and esteem; adopted by the House on April 12, 2016 and by the Senate on April 19, 2016.