After President Brian Cecola called to order last night’s Board of Trustees meeting and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited,  two officers were recognized for serving our Village: Sergeant Ronald Riedel who currently has served the most years, and Officer Reyes Leon who was sworn in before the Board.

Police Chief Joseph Colditz presented Sergeant Ronald Riedel with a 25-year service award.  He summarized Sergeant Riedel’s decorated employment history, assignments and education with both commendation and appreciation, and shared that Sgt. Riedel is known among our residents for his assistance, professionalism, comfort and compassion, as indicated by their countless notes, cards and letters of gratitude.

Some of Sergeant Riedel’s many accolades include:

• Outstanding Community Service Award for his work on the Neighborhood Watch, DARE and Special Olympics Torch Run Programs
• Life-Saving Award for administering Naloxone to a suspected overdose victim
• Award of Excellence from the Illinois Homicide Investigators Association
• Recipient of the Cook County Sheriff’s Law Enforcement Award of Merit
• Multiple Department commendations for his involvement in various Department programs and initiatives

Although he has achieved his 25th year with Barrington Hills earlier this month, Sergeant Riedel will soon reach his 29th year as a police officer, having worked four years prior with another municipality.

Following Sergeant Riedel’s award ceremony, Chief Colditz introduced Officer Reyes Leon as our force’s newest officer and highlighted:

Chief Colditz shared highlighting:

• Service in the United States Navy Reserve as a corpsman assigned to the Marine Corp. Infantry
• Graduated from Chicago Police Department Metro Recruit Academy
• Pursuing his bachelor’s degree in political science from Northern Illinois University
• Currently in field training

After being ceremoniously sworn in by Village Clerk, Nikki Panos, Officer Leon’s wife pinned his star onto his uniform, as is tradition. It was an evening of respect and honor, something truly a pleasure to witness!

Congratulations Sergeant Riedel & Officer Leon!

We’re lucky to have you!