High Five To Heroes Salutes Local Police Chief

JEFFERSON TWP., Pennsylvania (WKBN) – For the second time this year, the Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce has handed out its special ‘High Five To Heroes’ award to a local, and very special, first responder.

“These are individuals that protect and serve and put their lives on the line for us in times of danger, in times of worry, in times of strife,” said Jim Bombeck, Executive Director of the Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce. “We want to recognize that they’re willing to step up and do that for us. And it’s an amazing thing if you think about what they do every day. And it’s a small way to say thank you.”

The High Five To Heroes Award, which is presented monthly to a local first responder on behalf of JCL Development, was presented to Jeff Lockard, who serves as the police chief of Jefferson Township. The department is small and volunteer.

A big sponsor of the award is Jim McLuskey and his wife, Chris, of McLuskey Showcase Kitchens and Bath.

“In the community, these first responders protect us. We sponsored a program because what was so great and cool is it is not about politics. It’s not about titles. It’s about gratitude to these first responders,” said McLuskey. “When that pager goes off, and it’s not convenient for them, they still respond. That’s important to us and our community.”

Lockard, who also serves as fire chief, graciously accepted the award for himself and his department.

“I would like to thank the chamber for recognizing us. It doesn’t happen every day in public safety. We were really excited about having this award come to us. The other two officers are here. All three of my township supervisors are here for this. Which shows that there’s a lot of merit to that being a smaller department, being out in a rural area,” said Lockard. “We do the same things as every other police department. One of the neat things that I like to brag about here in Jefferson Township is our community is a great supporter of our public safety out here. You couldn’t ask for a better place to work.”

Lockard also credits the community for supporting the department.

“I just want to thank them for all the support they give to us. Without them, we couldn’t do it,” said Lockard. “It’s a great thing. It’s a great opportunity.”