May 6, 2008

WASHINGTON, DC -- Scott Fritz, a conservation officer for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at LaCrescent, was awarded the State Medal of Honor by the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association at the association’s annual conference in Duluth in late April.

An audience of 450 Minnesota police chiefs and law enforcement colleagues applauded Fritz for service during 2007.

DNR Chief Conservation Officer Mike Hamm recognized the significance of Fritz’s efforts from Aug. 19, 2007, when he and LaCrescent police officer Michael Ernster, who also received the State Medal of Honor, rescued three occupants of a submerged vehicle at Pine Creek during severe flooding. Ernster and three firefighters who also came on the scene were swept into the raging water during rescue attempts with a small boat. Fritz was able to rescue everyone with a DNR airboat.

Col. Hamm is a member of the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association, an organization of 350 Minnesota chief members that has existed since 1954. The association delivers executive-level police chief training; community and legislative support; advisory representation to state technology, crime and drug task forces; and mentorship for chiefs and command staff.