Wood County came together this week to honor the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting their communities, as part of National Police Week. Held from May 11 to May 17, the annual observance serves as a time of reflection, appreciation, and unity among law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Detective RS Black of the Vienna Police Department and President of FOP Lodge 79 spoke during the event, highlighting the selflessness of police officers who serve out of a deep sense of duty, not for praise.
“For many, law enforcement isn’t just a job—it’s a calling,” said Black. “These officers wake up each day and face the unknown with courage, protecting our neighborhoods and families.”
Wood County is home to several law enforcement agencies including the Parkersburg, Vienna, and Williamstown Police Departments, the Wood County Sheriff’s Office, and the West Virginia State Police.
The week’s events began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Public Safety Memorial located at the Parkersburg Municipal Building. Secretary of State Kris Warner joined in the tribute, emphasizing the role of law enforcement in maintaining the rule of law.
“While the military protects us from external threats, our police safeguard our daily lives and preserve civil society,” Warner said. “They are essential to our way of life.”
Afterward, an awards ceremony was held at the Wood County Resiliency Center, recognizing outstanding officers for their courage and service.
Parkersburg Police Chief Matthew Board presented several commendations. Officer Matthew W. Eichhorn II was honored for his bravery during a 2021 standoff where shots were fired at officers. Officers Chase Mathess and Spencer Wiley received recognition for rescuing a man from the Ohio River last July.
Mathess, along with Officers Justin Ozanick and Cole Plants, also received awards for their life-saving actions during a January fire where they saved a child from a burning home. Officer Shane Suttles was celebrated for quickly helping a choking child while serving legal papers.
Chief Board praised the dedication of his officers, noting that not all heroism involves action-packed scenes.
“Whether it’s saving a child or maintaining calm in a crisis, these moments matter,” said Board. “Our officers show strength and compassion—and they make me proud every day.”
The prestigious Charles L. Plum Memorial Award for Officer of the Year was awarded to Officer Dyllan Caplinger of the Parkersburg Police Department. Caplinger, a field training officer, has shown exemplary leadership and commitment, even taking on overtime and mentoring new recruits.
“In just four years, Officer Caplinger has become a role model and community asset,” Black said.
Community contributions were also recognized. St. Joseph’s Ambulance Service received the Distinguished Citizen of the Year award, accepted by William Minear II and Jim Dennewitz.
Minear was further honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for over 35 years of service in public safety, currently serving as Deputy Director of Critical Infrastructure Protection with the West Virginia National Guard.
Scholarships were awarded to Andrew and Matthew Stalnaker as part of FOP Lodge 79’s efforts to support future leaders.
Black ended the ceremony by reminding everyone of the passion behind the badge.
“Every day, we go to work not knowing what will happen. But with the support of our community, we remain committed to keeping everyone safe,” he said.
The ceremony served not only as a reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily but also of the deep respect and gratitude their communities hold for them.
