Aerial Support Police Unit Honored

The DeKalb County Police Department’s Aerial Support Unit’s actions of using night vision goggles to locate and assist in rescuing a stranded hiker has received recognition.

The unit, based in Tucker and headed by Pilot Sgt. Jeff Wiggs, was presented with the “Mark of Excellence Award” during the recent Airborne Law Enforcement Association’s (ALEA) convention in Orlando, Fla.

Aviation Specialties Unlimited and Night Flight Concepts presented the Unit with the honor for assisting the Stone Mountain Police Department on August 4, 2012, with the night rescue of a hiker. 

“It is an honor for the Aerial Support Unit to receive a service award for its use of night vision goggles during missions. The unit’s work is a glaring example of the DeKalb County Police Department’s commitment to safety and providing quality service to the community and our police officers,” said Police Chief Cedric Alexander.

The Aerial Support Unit has flown with the night vision goggles for over seven years. It was the first law enforcement unit in Metro Atlanta to fly with the equipment. The goggles assist pilots with safely navigating challenging terrain and obstacles during night missions.

The Department was also presented the “5 Years of Service Award” for its continued use of night vision goggles.