It was a day of celebration for our dedicated officers in blue as Police Week comes to a close. 

The police service awards ceremony held at the Guam Museum in Hagatna. 

The department recognizes both civilians and those on the force, including the Officer of the Year. 

“I remember when I got here, during family day, I actually had no family to cheer for me,” said Police Officer II Jorem Guardian. 

After leaving behind his family and home in Saipan to chase a better opportunity, Guardian is now chasing down suspects and justice for crime victims. 

His hard work and dedication earned him Police Officer of the Year.

“I have no idea what I’m doing up here. It’s light and day from when I first applied as a car wash attendant in Saipan. When I finally came to Guam, I lived the dream– I finally made $9 as a car wash attendant,” added Guardian. 

The 28-year-old is now with patrol at the Dededo precinct. 

“I feel a sense of pride obviously, but also I feel very grateful for everybody that came together to make this happen. All my supervisors, my peers, my family who support me at home. I feel very, very grateful,” said Guardian. 

The significant milestone was recognized Friday as part of the police service awards ceremony to close out Police Week. 

“The Guam Police Department has wonderful men and women. All employees are all deserving of being recognized for the hard work they do. We keep our community safe. We’re very appreciative of all the work they put in for our community,” said Chief of Police, Stephen Ignacio. 

GPD also recognized Civilian of the Year Nellie Asanuma, Manager of the Year Sgt II Eric Toves, supervisor of the Year Sgt. John Perez, Civilian Volunteer Police Reserve Officer of the Year Arnold Fabriga and unit citation awardee records & identification section. 

“I just want to say to the people of Guam that our Guam Police Department is excellent. Our Guam Police Department is committed,” said Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero. “I want our people to be assured the Guam Police Department is working efficiently, working very diligently, to protect the people that live here and to serve the community as is in their mission.”

And as for Officer Guardian, he’s found opportunities, purpose and family in the force. 

“All those empty seats during that family day now are filled. So I want to say thank you for being the family that chose me,” added Guardian.