Newtown Police Department officers were honored in various ways on National Police Appreciation Day on Thursday, January 9.

Every year, Newtown resident Lois Barber arranges to have a United States Flag flown over the United States Capitol in honor of military veterans working for the Newtown Police Department.

Officers Kevin Poruban and Kurt Kling were hired by the Newtown Police Department last year, graduated from the Milford Police Academy in November, and are currently in the local Field Training Program. Poruban is still currently in the Army National Guard. Both officers received a flag in honor of their service on January 8, a day ahead of Police Appreciation Day.

Barber also arranged for the proclamations to be signed by Senator Richard Blumenthal for actions taken by officers during last year's flooding. Several officers were involved in rescue operations that pulled stranded motorists out of life threatening situations. Sergeant Matt Wood and Officers Tim Schoen, Ben Mulhall, and John Facto each received letters from Senator Blumenthal.

Newtown Police Department Chief David Kullgren released a message to local officers, dispatchers, and support staff on National Police Appreciation Day, expressing his profound appreciation and gratitude to everyone for their service to the community. Kullgren said that every call they answer, challenge they face, and sacrifice they make embodies the heart of their mission to serve and protect the community.

"Your work is challenging and requires courage, compassion, and resilience. However, your dedication makes a difference, fostering safety and trust within our community," Kullgren said.

He continued by saying that their efforts do not go unnoticed, and that they are a source of pride for him, their families, and the people they serve.

"Thank you for your service today and every day. Stay safe, and continue to uphold the values that define this department," Kullgren said.