Tech. Sgt. Daniel Christian of Minot Air Force Base has been selected by the Minot Optimist Club as Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Christian was recognized at the club’s annual Respect for Law luncheon May 20.

Over the past year, Christian has performed as noncommissioned officer in charge of Security Escort Teams, a position typically reserved for personnel senior in rank and experience. He was nominated for the law enforcement award based on his work in leading a section of 156 Security Forces personnel in support of missile field security and orchestrating the deployment of 6,211 Security Escort, Camper Alert and Support Fire Team trips to 602 Protection Level One sites, which culminated in 76,246 hours of impenetrable security. His actions were acknowledged as pivotal to safeguarding $3.3 billion in nuclear assets.

Christian was recognized at the base as his squadron’s Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.

“TSgt Christian is keenly devoted to his work and the US Air Force Security Forces mission. He truly leads by example,” Lt. Col. James Popphan, commander of the 791st Missile Security Forces Squadron, wrote in the nomination.

Popphan added that Christian is a mentor and role model for his section. Christian was selected as the co-lead for Minot Air Force Base’s Police Week. His oversight was critical to coordinating 300 volunteers in raising $1,200 for the North Dakota Peace Officers Association.

Christian also rallied his section to 2,400 volunteer hours of service to the base and Minot community. Organizations benefiting included Roosevelt Park Zoo, Souris Valley Animal Shelter and Meals on Wheels.

Respect for Law is a national program of Optimist International. This year the Minot club welcomed members of the Minot Police Department, Minot Air Force Base, Border Patrol, Highway Patrol, Surrey law enforcement and Ward County Sheriff’s Office to its luncheon.