Clarkesville Police Officer Honored with Award of Valor and National Recognition

Officer Terry 'J' Palmer Jr. recognized for heroic actions during critical incident in 2024.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The City of Clarkesville has announced that Police Officer Terry 'J' Palmer Jr. has been formally recognized for extraordinary bravery and valor in the line of duty. Officer Palmer was recommended for the Award of Valor in 2025 by Chief Daniel Clouatre for his actions during a critical incident in September 2024, where his training, composure, and decisive response played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of himself and fellow officers. Officer Palmer has now been further honored at the state and national level, including being the first officer from Georgia to receive the prestigious Founders Award from the National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame.

Why it matters

This recognition highlights the importance of courage, professionalism, and dedication among law enforcement officers, especially in high-stress and rapidly evolving situations. Officer Palmer's actions directly saved lives and prevented a potentially catastrophic outcome, demonstrating the vital role police play in protecting public safety.

The details

On September 7, 2024, what began as a routine welfare check at the Cameron Circle Apartments in Clarkesville escalated into a severe and rapidly evolving situation. Officer Palmer's training, composure, and decisive response were crucial in ensuring the safety of himself and fellow officers and deputies. Chief Daniel Clouatre recommended Officer Palmer for the Award of Valor in May 2025, stating that his conduct 'exemplified the highest traditions of law enforcement' and that his actions 'directly saved lives and prevented what could have been a catastrophic outcome'.

  • On September 7, 2024, the critical incident occurred at the Cameron Circle Apartments in Clarkesville.
  • In May 2025, Officer Palmer was recommended by Chief Daniel Clouatre for the Award of Valor.
  • On Thursday, February 26, 2026, Officer Palmer was honored at the state capitol by order of resolution in both the House and Senate.
  • On April 10, 2026, Officer Palmer will be recognized nationally during the National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Fort Worth, Texas.

The players

Terry 'J' Palmer Jr.

A police officer with the Clarkesville Police Department who was recognized for his heroic actions during a critical incident in 2024.

Daniel Clouatre

The Chief of the Clarkesville Police Department who recommended Officer Palmer for the Award of Valor in 2025.

Clarkesville Police Department

The law enforcement agency where Officer Palmer serves and which has recognized his actions with local awards.

North Georgia Mountains Lodge 112 Fraternal Order of Police

The local organization that has previously recognized Officer Palmer's service with awards.

National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame

The national organization that will be honoring Officer Palmer with the prestigious Founders Award on April 10, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“Officer Palmer's conduct on that evening exemplified the highest traditions of law enforcement: courage, selflessness, composure under fire, and a profound commitment to the safety of others. His ability to assess the threat, take decisive action, and protect his fellow officers — at great personal risk — demonstrates valor in its purest form. It is my sincere belief that Officer Palmer's actions directly saved lives and prevented what could have been a catastrophic outcome.”

— Daniel Clouatre, Chief, Clarkesville Police Department

What’s next

On April 10, 2026, Officer Terry 'J' Palmer Jr. will be recognized nationally during the National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Fort Worth, Texas, where he will become the first officer from Georgia to receive the prestigious Founders Award.

The takeaway

Officer Palmer's actions and the recognition he has received highlight the importance of courage, professionalism, and dedication among law enforcement officers, especially in high-stress and rapidly evolving situations. His heroic conduct directly saved lives and prevented a potentially catastrophic outcome, demonstrating the vital role police play in protecting public safety.