Area law enforcement and firefighters honored at Banquet

The Vicksburg Homecoming Benevolent Club held its 40th Officer/Fireperson of the Year banquet on Wednesday night.

The ceremony opened with welcomes, toasts, an invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Flaggs then offered greetings to everyone. Immediately thereafter the group enjoyed a Banquet featuring greens, fried chicken, and desserts.

Chief Penny Jones was the featured speaker. Photo by David Day

Close to 100 people attended the event at the Vicksburg Event & Business Center on Washington Street at Speed.

Two representatives of city and county law enforcement along with the city fire department and two members of the Highway Patrol who serve our area were recognized.

The nominees are:

Vicksburg Police Department

• Officer Donnie Heggins
• Officer Michael Battle

Warren County Sheriff’s Office

• Deputy Chreka Clark
• Deputy T’Onna Sims

Vicksburg Fire Department

• Captain/EMT Joseph Rusche
• Captain/Paramedic Jabaris McDaniel

Mississippi Highway Patrol

• Trooper Nicklos Howard
• Sergeant Willie Jones
• Master Sergeant Michael Brown

Each nominee was presented with a Certificate commemorating the event. The winner was given a plaque.

The Vicksburg Homecoming Benevolent Society was organized in the summer of 1975. Since that time they have recognized hundreds of law enforcement and firefighters. They also present Annual Scholarships to local high school students, hold oratorical competitions, and host an annual Thanksgiving Basket Giveaway along with numerous other things to support our community.