The Salem Police Department has named Salem Grade School Resource Officer Mason McMeen as Officer of the Year and Telecommunicator Emily Meador-Day as Telecommunicator of the Year.
The awards were presented at the Salem Police Department’s annual Christmas Party where officers and dispatchers were recognized for their commendable service during 2024.
McMeen was recognized by his peers as an officer who not only puts extraordinary effort into his role but who does it with a positive outlook and attitude. McMeen has not only been an asset by providing school safety and outreach, but he has also been active with the Southern Illinois Special Response Team. Deputy Police Chief Tyler Rose says McMeen has proven that he is willing to serve the City of Salem in any way he can. The award was given along with an official commendation for his dedication and service to the city.
Meador-Day was also recognized by her peers for her willingness to take on additional roles and responsibilities. Over the past year, she assisted with the implementation of a new Computer-Aided Dispatch system. Rose says Meador-Day has also handled multiple critical incidents and is a valuable asset for the department and the surrounding agencies that the Salem dispatch center serves.
