By NewsLine staff
mail@floridanewsline.com
The Rotary Club of Mandarin presented Officer Christopher Bruns with the District 3 Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Police Officer of the Year 2024 Award on June 3.
Bruns’ recognition stems from exceptional service throughout the past year, highlighted by a life-saving incident in April. When a frantic call came in about a missing 2-year-old girl, Bruns arrived to find the child had been located unresponsive in a pond by her mother and neighbors.
Without hesitation, Bruns took charge of the scene, continuing CPR that a neighbor had started until first responders could transport the girl to a respiratory unit. The combined efforts resulted in the child’s full recovery.
“What happened next showcases the kind of training and character that separates good officers from great ones,” said a Rotary Club spokesman.
The ceremony, attended by JSO District 3 leadership and Bruns’ family, also recognized Cmdr. Randi Glossman, who served as District 3 commander when Bruns was nominated. Glossman was honored for her distinguished career and community service.
The Police Officer of the Year Award is an annual tradition honoring Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office members’ commitment and courage in protecting the community. It serves as recognition for all JSO personnel.
“Stories like Officer Bruns’ remind us that heroes don’t always wear capes — sometimes they wear badges and show up when we need them most,” organizers said.
The Rotary Club of Mandarin, known for its blend of local community involvement and global initiatives, meets for breakfast every Tuesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Ramada Inn on Hartley Road. Those interested in learning more can visit www.mandarinrotary.org or contact John Meux at membership@mandarinrotary.org for additional information about the organization’s fellowship and leadership programs.
