Jerry Hawkins, former County cop, helicopter pilot and all around good egg was recently honored with a Resolution from the St. Louis County Council.
It all started a while back when Jerry was honored with the FAA designation of Master Pilot for having flown over 6900 hours, mostly rotary wing time, without any accidents or violations. These are not given out willie, nillie. Only about fifty of these awards have been given out over the past 5 years.
Upon hearing of the FAA award former COPD Lt. Denny Robertson and Chief Gil Kleinknecht made it their missiopn to see that Jerry was apptly recognized by the County Council. The former cops contaced County Councilman Tim Fitch, also a former Chief of the COPD.
former Chief Tim Fitch at the presentation of the St. Louis County Council honoring “Skyhawk” for his service to the citizens of St. Louis County
After a few seconds of deliberation Tim said…”Hell yeah.” The measure was quickly drafted and passed unanimously by the full Council with a bunch of “Whereas”& “There Fore’s” scattered throughout the document.
As a street cop and detective I can attest to the help and assistance given by Jerry and other members of the unit.
A little know factoid is that Jerry was instrumental in assisting in the caspture of one of the FBI’s top 10.
Well deserved award for a guy that earned it through dedication, tenacity and resolve to insure that street cops and specialized units could count on the air support unit of the County Police.
Carry On Sir!!