Police Hall Of Fame To Induct Van Officers

Several Van Police Officers are going to be inducted into the American Police Hall of Fame Thursday night. The ceremony will be held at the Van ISD Auditorium and will begin at 7 p.m.

Guest speaker for the event will be Texas State Representative Dan Flynn and a representative from Congressman Jeb Hensarling’s office will also be in attendance.

Also during the event, several former Van Police Officers will be recognized including Paul Martin, Danny Ford and past chiefs Donnie Payne, Mike Norris, Marshall McGrady and Bill Bogue.

There will also be a brief graduation ceremony for cadets of the East Texas Police Academy who have been attending a night basic peace officers course in Van since May.

Several other Outstanding Community Service Awards will be given out as well.

"This is going to be a very special night for our officers and their families. As well as for the police academy cadets," said Van Police Chief Kelly Smith.

Smith said that he would like to extend an invitation to the entire community to the event.

"We would like for everyone to come out and help us celebrate this very special event," said Smith.