Local officer recognized with Illinois Law Enforcement Medal Of Honor
CHILLICOTHE, Ill. (WMBD) — A local police officer was recognized for his brave service to the people of Illinois.
Officer David Buchanan of the Chillicothe Police Department was awarded a 2024 Illinois Law Enforcement Medal of Honor on Thursday, according to an Illinois State Police news release.
Buchanan joined the department last year after retiring from the Peoria Police Department.
He was recognized at the Law Enforcement Medal of Honor ceremony in Springfield, which honored 23 officers from 10 different agencies who performed acts of heroism or were killed or seriously injured while performing their duties.
'Today, we pay tribute to our heroic police officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty while protecting our communities,' said Gov. JB Pritzker. 'From Palatine to Chicago to Granite City, our honorees saved lives and offered comfort and support to countless others.
'While we will never be able to repay their bravery in full, we hope that this recognition can serve as a public reminder of our gratitude and a symbol of the sincere reverence we hold them in,' the governor said.
Brendan F. Kelly, who heads the state police, said the recipients were being recognized for their outstanding examples of courage.
'These men and women faced extreme danger, remained brave in the face of imminent threats, and performed with the highest heroism,' he said. 'Today and forever, we thank and honor them.'
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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