The award, presented by the Gibsonville Police Department, recognized Gerner for his efforts to locate a missing person this spring.
Elon University Campus Police Corporal Ryan Gerner was recognized this month for his life-saving efforts by Gibsonville Police Chief Ron Parrish. Gerner received his award along with Gibsonville Police Officer Heath Talley at a regular town board meeting on Nov. 1.
Gerner and Talley were recognized for their efforts and dedication to duty in locating a missing person on March 23.
On that date, Gibsonville police officers responded to a missing person call. The individual had been missing for hours and the family had made many unsuccessful contact attempts. Investigative efforts directed the officers to Shallow Ford Natural Area. The Gibsonville police officers requested backup for their search and were quickly joined by the Alamance County Sheriff’s Office, Alamance County Emergency Rescue Squad, Alamance County Rescue Squad and Elon University Campus Police.
Gerner and Talley searched on foot for the individual before locating him shortly after midnight. The individual was lying face down on the ground and was unconscious but breathing. The officers immediately directed the Alamance County Rescue Squad to the area, and the individual was evacuated to Alamance Regional Medical Center. This individual was admitted for a medical and psychological evaluation.
The officers were commended for their commitment and dedication to duty and life-saving efforts. Their colleagues recognized their teamwork, which was a reflection of the actions demonstrated by all Alamance County first responder agencies.
Gerner and Talley were joined at the event by their families and friends, Gibsonville residents and first responder colleagues.