Travelers Rest Police Department names employees of the year

TRAVELERS REST, S.C. – The Travelers Rest Police Department recently presented its annual officer and civilian team members of the year awards to Corporal Mason Johnson and Communications Specialist James Paris, respectively.

As has been the tradition since 2006, the award recipients were nominated by their fellow employees, and the winners' plaques will be displayed in the lobby of city hall.

“Both are dedicated and hardworking examples of the best the TRPD has to offer our community,” said Travelers Rest Police Chief Lance Crowe.

Nomination form highlights included the following peer comments:

Mason Johnson —

• One of the most honest and dependable officers I have met in my career;

• Mason showed courage in the unfortunate vehicle accident that he had to face this year;

• Has proven to be calm and collected under pressure;

• Shows true compassion for people;

• Continues to try and better his abilities in the area of his Corporal position;

• Very much a team player and willing to help out whenever he can;

• His rescue of the victim in the traffic accident on his shift shows his character and willingness to go above and beyond for the department and the community that he serves.

James Paris —

• Goes above and beyond in dispatch duties;

• Friendly to his peers as well as to customers;

• Always giving suggestions as to new ideas for the betterment of the department;

• James is always here and has never called in sick;

• Ability to diagnose and remedy problems with equipment is a huge asset;

• Willing to help officers get the information they need in a timely manner;

• Very courteous and willing to go the extra mile to help anyone in need – civilian or law enforcement;

•  A problem solver with any challenge that is presented to him.

(Editor's note: Earlier this year, Corporal Johnson was awarded a Medal of Valor for his role in pulling a man from a burning vehicle. Read more on the Tribune here.)