Maryland sheriff's corporal, Alaska fire department training chief honored during national convention

A corporal in a Maryland county sheriff's office and a fire department training chief at an Alaska Air Force base were honored Aug. 28 as The American Legion Law Enforcement Officer and Firefighter of the Year during the organization’s national convention in New Orleans.

Calvert County, Md., Sheriff Corp. Nicholas DeFelice was honored for “Outstanding selfless service over and above normal duties through heroic acts, community service and professional achievement thereby exemplifying the meaning of the phrase: America’s Finest,” the citation read.

DeFelice started his career as a sheriff’s deputy in 2006 and two years later was assigned to his department’s Criminal Investigation Bureau, quickly earning honors such as Officer of the Year and Detective of the Year. His career continued to progress and eventually he became the first line supervisor for the Special Operations Team.

“He demonstrated exceptional bravery and tactical skilled during a critical incident in 2022, which involved an armed suspect,” American Legion National Commander Daniel Seehafer said. “His actions prevented potential harm to his team. In addition to his responsibilities with the Calvert County Sheriff Office, he is active as a youth coach, community volunteer and advocate for better mental health crisis response.”

DeFelice praised those who have helped him to get to this point in his law enforcement career. “Conceivably, I stand before you on pure luck,” he said. “Or, it’s a testament to the people that have influenced me as mentors and difference makers.”

Capt. Daniel Rawson, Fire Department Training Chief at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, is the National Firefighter of the Year for exhibiting “outstanding selfless service over and above normal duties through community service and professional achievement, thereby exemplifying the meaning of the phrase: America’s Bravest.”

In his role he oversees the development and execution of the annual training plan, managing over 150 training requirements. He also supervises military readiness training for 57 military members and coordinates training for 20 supervisors.

“In addition to numerous other accomplishments, he played a key role in developing emergency response plans for the F-35 aircraft and emergency posture for a major airshow,” said Seehafer.

Rawson said he would not have had the opportunity to receive the award, “without my management team, who nominated and have supported me. This award not only honors me, but also shines a light on the dedication and sacrifice of firefighters everywhere.”