ACPD Officer Named VFW Post and State of Kansas Officer of the Year

Sergeant Michael Yzquierdo was recently named the 2022 VFW Post and State of Kansas Officer of the Year. Sgt. Yzquierdo was honored during the March 21 City Commission meeting by members of the Arkansas City VFW.

Hired at the ACPD on Oct. 14, 2019, those who nominated Sgt. Yzquierdo for the award said he'd worn many hats at the police department since his employment.

"Probably one of Sgt. Yzquierdo's strongest qualities is his ability to make a difference. In 2022, Sgt. Yzquierdo was involved in several community events and served as a crucial element in establishing Hope Squad in Cowley County, a group that helps teach peer-to-peer suicide prevention tips," Wade Hammond, Patrol Lieutenant, said.

Hammond also recalled a time when Sgt. Yzquierdo went above and beyond.

"On Sept. 19, 2022, Sgt. Yzquierdo called me and asked if I could help him at the middle school. When I arrived, Sgt. Yzquierdo learned that a student had popped his bike tire. Sgt. Yzquierdo offered to take the child and his bike home. If that wasn't kind enough, Mike went to Walmart and, out of his own pocket, bought a bike tube for this kid's bike."

In a nomination letter for the VFW award, Lt. Jason Legleither recalled an incident in 2022 where Sgt. Yzquierdo was later recognized for his life-saving efforts.

"On June 5, 2002, Arkansas City Police and Fire/EMS were dispatched to a local church for a female subject with a seizure. EMS arrived on the scene and began CPR. Sgt. Yzquierdo then arrived on the scene and began assisting with life-saving efforts. Sgt. Yzquierdo and EMS worked together to perform life-saving measures until the female began breathing on her own," Lt. Jason Legleither said.

At the close of his nomination letter Wade Hammond, Patrol Lieutenant, said this of Sgt. Yzquierdo:

"From the time he started until now, Sgt. Yzquierdo has always done his best and always puts others before himself. To watch him grow has been very rewarding."

If you have questions or concerns about this or any ACPD press releases, please contact Police Chief Eric Burr at (620) 441-6601 or email him at eburr@arkcity.org.