Rawlins Police Recognized for Exceptional Service

Department honors officers for bravery, life-saving actions, and specialized training

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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The Rawlins Police Department held its annual awards ceremony on February 11th, recognizing several officers for their exceptional work and service to the community. Police Chief Mike Ward presented Distinguished Service Medals to Officer Amber Yardley and Lieutenant Jared Frakes for their actions during a dangerous incident last summer, as well as Life Saving Medals to officers who had saved multiple lives on the job. The department also honored officers with Meritorious Service Ribbons, Faithful Service Ribbons, Specialized Unit Ribbons, and Instructor Ribbons.

Why it matters

The awards ceremony highlights the dedication and heroism of the Rawlins Police Department, which plays a vital role in keeping the community safe. By recognizing officers for their exceptional work, the department reinforces its commitment to public service and builds trust with residents.

The details

During the February 17th Rawlins City Council meeting, Police Chief Mike Ward detailed the awards ceremony held the previous week. Officer Amber Yardley and Lieutenant Jared Frakes received the Distinguished Service Medal for their actions during a dangerous incident last summer, where Frakes remained calm and kept the suspect talking while Yardley brought a less-lethal shotgun, ultimately saving themselves and the suspect. The department also recognized officers who had saved multiple lives, with Chief Ward stating that Rawlins police are uniquely called to assist on medical calls. Additionally, the Meritorious Service Ribbon was awarded to officers who had placed themselves in danger to arrest an armed suspect and respond to a six-hour standoff with a wanted individual.

  • The Rawlins Police Department held its annual awards ceremony on February 11, 2026.
  • The awards presentation was discussed during the February 17, 2026 Rawlins City Council meeting.

The players

Mike Ward

The Police Chief of the Rawlins Police Department, who presented the awards and provided details about the ceremony to the Rawlins City Council.

Amber Yardley

A Rawlins police officer who received the Distinguished Service Medal for her actions during a dangerous incident.

Jared Frakes

A Rawlins police lieutenant who received the Distinguished Service Medal for his actions during a dangerous incident, where he remained calm and kept the suspect talking.

Thom Gamblin

A Rawlins police sergeant who Chief Ward said has saved more lives than anyone else he knows.

George Phillips

A Rawlins police sergeant who earned the difficult drug recognition expert certification, recognized with the Specialized Unit Ribbon.

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What they’re saying

“Law enforcement is not a job or a career, it's a calling. When asked why they chose to pursue a role in law enforcement, the police chief said candidates invariably say they want to help people.”

— Mike Ward, Police Chief (bigfoot99.com)

“Together, their actions saved both, themselves and the suspect.”

— Mike Ward, Police Chief (bigfoot99.com)

“For most of his police career, saving a life was a rare occurrence, but not in Rawlins.”

— Mike Ward, Police Chief (bigfoot99.com)

What’s next

The Rawlins City Council will likely continue to monitor the Rawlins Police Department's efforts to engage the community and recognize exceptional service by its officers.

The takeaway

The Rawlins Police Department's awards ceremony highlights the dedication and heroism of its officers, who go above and beyond to protect and serve their community. By recognizing life-saving actions, specialized training, and exceptional performance, the department reinforces its commitment to public safety and builds trust with residents.