Heroes Among Us: Celebrating Bravery at the Thames Valley Police Federation Awards

Earlier this month, Thames Valley Police Federation hosted their annual Bravery Awards, honouring officers who demonstrated courage, quick thinking, and compassion in dangerous situations. Their actions highlight the extraordinary work carried out by officers in our communities every day.

PC Henry Johnson

PC Henry Johnson saved a man’s life on the M40 motorway after a 12-hour shift. Despite the danger from passing traffic, he dragged the injured man to safety and provided first aid until emergency services arrived. The man recovered from severe injuries. Chair Aileen O’Connor praised Henry’s bravery, noting he undoubtedly saved the man’s life.

PC Sophie McDiarmid and Sgt Chris Smith tackled a knifeman attacking a family in Milton Keynes. Unarmed, they ran towards the attacker, deployed a Taser, and subdued him with help from bystanders. The man was jailed for 11 years. Chair Aileen O’Connor commended on their bravery, stating their actions prevented serious injury or loss of life.

Sgt Andy Grant, PC Patrick Rumbol, PC Abbie Chambers, PC Michael Allington, DC Heather Bainbridge, PC Matthew Aldridge, along with unnamed colleagues detained an armed intruder at a school in Slough. The intruder threatened staff and claimed to have a firearm. The officers subdued him, and the school was put into lockdown. The suspect was charged and detained in a psychiatric hospital. Chair Aileen O’Connor praised their quick and professional actions in a volatile situation.

PC Curtis Foster, PC Cameron Parker-Graham, PC Mark Thompson, PC Milla Thomson, Sgt Ben Sarl, and PC Chandler, along with two anonymous officers, responded to an incident involving a man with a crossbow in High Wycombe. The suspect had stabbed his neighbour and shot PC Foster with a crossbow bolt. Despite the danger, the officers subdued the man, who was arrested and pleaded guilty to multiple charges. PC Foster is recovering from his injuries. Chair Aileen O’Connor highlighted their courage and teamwork in a highly volatile situation.

Other recipients on the night included retired Detective Chief Inspector Penny MacKenzie (Female Trailblazer), PC Joe Swan (Community Hero), PC Sam Wilson & PC Chris Allen (Fire Rescue), and our cadre of 27 Post-Incident Managers.

Chief Constable Jason Hogg honoured the award recipients, praising their exceptional dedication and bravery in safeguarding communities. He emphasized the importance of their work in strengthening public confidence and urged them to take pride in their achievements.

Inspired by what you have read? Thames Valley Police are actively recruiting police officers across all our entry routes; with particular emphasis on postings within the counties of Buckinghamshire and Berkshire. Find out more at www.tvpcareers.co.uk and consider stepping forward, for a career that won’t be easy, but will ensure you make a difference.