It is for his dedication to service and exemplary leadership that the Battle Ground Police Department proudly named Detective Ethan Poki the 2024 Officer of the Year
The Battle Ground Police Department (BGPD) recently announced the recipients of the 2024 Employee Awards. These awards recognize BGPD personnel—including sworn officers and professional staff—who have demonstrated exceptional service, professionalism and a significant contribution to the department over the past year.
“The Battle Ground Police Department is fortunate to have a team of individuals who are deeply committed to serving our community,” shared Chief Dennis Flynn. “It is our privilege to recognize their contributions and celebrate the extraordinary impact they make through their dedication and compassion.”
Life Saving Medal – Officer Chris Pagaduan and Lieutenant Jason Perdue
On November 2, 2024, Officer Chris Pagaduan was dispatched to a call involving a 70-year-old female who was unconscious, not breathing, and had just gone into cardiac arrest. Demonstrating exceptional urgency and preparedness, Officer Pagaduan arrived on-scene just one minute and 48 seconds after being dispatched and immediately began administering CPR. When medical personnel arrived at the scene Officer Pagaduan transitioned to assist with their continued treatment of the patient. Together they were able to successfully resuscitate the patient, who was then transported to a local hospital. Officer Pagaduan’s readiness to take immediate action undoubtedly made the difference in a life-or-death situation.
On the evening of August 31, 2024, Lieutenant Jason Perdue was dining with his family at a restaurant in Blaine, Washington. While enjoying his meal, he observed an elderly woman at a nearby table suddenly fall into visible medical distress. It quickly became apparent that she was choking and unable to breathe. Without hesitation, and despite being off-duty, Lt. Perdue immediately sprang into action. He performed the Heimlich maneuver, a critical intervention that successfully cleared the woman’s airway. At the same time, he ensured that emergency services were contacted and coordinated care until paramedics arrived. Lt. Perdue’s decisive actions saved the woman’s life and exemplifies his unwavering commitment to the law enforcement values to protect and serve—on or off the clock.
Commendation Medal
Several members of the Battle Ground Police Department were presented with Commendation Medals in recognition of their outstanding performance on calls, investigations, and department projects. The honorees include:
- Sally McKerney, Parking Enforcement Officer
- Emily Cain, Police Support Specialist
- Kayla Whitmire, Police Support Specialist
- Katrina Green, Police Support Manager
- Lieutenant Jim Keller
- Officer Chris Pagaduan
Service Recognition – Officer John Gaves — 25 Years of Service
Officer of the Year – Detective Ethan Poki
Detective Ethan Poki was named the Battle Ground Police Officer of the Year, a distinction awarded by his peers in recognition of his exceptional contributions throughout the year.
Detective Poki was nominated, in part, for his demonstration of ‘service before self.’ In early 2024, the Detective Unit welcomed two new investigators and, as the senior detective, Poki prioritized ensuring their success by coordinating training and providing case briefings of the present caseload. Meanwhile, the patrol unit was facing staffing constraints due to military leave and officer injuries. Detective Poki volunteered to adjust his schedule to alleviate the burden on his fellow officers and to ensure proper coverage for our community.
It is for his dedication to service and exemplary leadership that the Battle Ground Police Department proudly named Detective Ethan Poki the 2024 Officer of the Year.
Honoring Service — Prioritizing Officer Wellness
Police Chief Dennis Flynn closed the April 30th ceremony by expressing deep appreciation for the department’s sworn and professional staff, as well as the families who support them. He acknowledged the vital role families play in the success of their loved ones and emphasized the importance of officer wellness, reminding all in attendance of the physical and emotional challenges faced in law enforcement and strongly urged officers to prioritize care for themselves and each other.
Chief Flynn concluded by sharing his sincere thanks to all who serve and support the mission to keep Battle Ground safe.
For more information on this year’s award recipients and to view the Battle Ground Police Department’s 2024 Annual Report, visit www.cityofbg.org/Police.
Information provided by the city of Battle Ground.
Also read:
- Signatures filed for initiatives on parental rights, blocking trans athletes from girls’ sports
Supporters of two initiatives on parental rights and transgender participation in girls’ sports filed signatures Friday, moving the measures closer to consideration by Washington lawmakers. - Vancouver Police investigate shooting
Vancouver Police are investigating a fatal shooting reported early Jan. 3 outside the Off-Ramp Sports Bar on Northeast 112th Avenue. - Vancouver Police release critical incident video from Dec. 28 officer-involved shooting
Vancouver Police Department released a Critical Incident Video related to a December 28 officer-involved shooting while the Office of Independent Investigations continues its review. - Opinion: Transit agencies need accountability not increased state subsidy
Charles Prestrud argues that Washington transit agencies face rising costs and declining ridership due to governance structures that lack public accountability. - Letter: ‘For years, American foreign policy too often felt like a blank check’
Vancouver resident Peter Bracchi argues that the 2025 National Security Strategy marks a long-overdue shift toward clearer priorities, shared responsibility, and interest-based American leadership. - POLL: Are you better off than you were a year ago?
This week’s poll asks readers to reflect on their personal financial situation and whether they feel better off than they were a year ago as economic conditions continue to shift. - Opinion: Does tailgating cause speeding?
Target Zero Manager Doug Dahl examines whether tailgating contributes to speeding and explains why following too closely increases crash risk with little benefit.
