COLUMBIA FALLS and PORTLAND, ME – August 4, 2023 — On Saturday, July 29th, as part of its 10th Annual Stem to Stone event, national nonprofit Wreaths Across America (WAA) recognized Ofc. Kevin Haley of Portland, Maine, as the second recipient of the organization’s Chief Janine Roberts’ Leadership Award. This award is given to a law enforcement/first responder member who exemplifies unwavering service to their community and dedication to WAA’s year-round mission to Remember, Honor, Teach.

Officer Haley was presented the Leadership Award by Janine Roberts, Chief of Police Westbrook, Maine, (retired) and Law Enforcement Liaison for WAA, for whom the award was created in 2020.

“We want to honor those who choose to serve their community in more ways than one,” said Roberts. “Kevin serves as a police officer but also lives the mission to Remember, Honor, Teach every day through his dedication to his community. His list of admirable attributes is extensive, and anyone who knows him has been impacted by his compassion and authenticity. He has been a friend and colleague for more than 20 years, and it is truly an honor to recognize him for his continued service.” 

Ofc. Haley serves as a member of the WAA Board of Directors. He has been a police officer with the City of Portland for the last 27 years and an athletic coach (now retired) for the Cheverus High School Swimming & Diving Team for the past 32 years. Since his initial WAA involvement in 2008, he has taken numerous students and members of the law enforcement and first responder community to Arlington National Cemetery to volunteer to lay wreaths. He is also a Gold Star Brother; William ‘Billy’ Patrick Haley, E-9 MSGT, is laid to rest at Arlington.

“Thank you is just not enough,” said Ofc. Haley. “Wreaths Across America has brought people together to remember that we owe our freedom to veterans and currently serving military members. I am honored to share the mission with my family and our community.” 

This year, National Wreaths Across America Day will be held on Saturday, December 16, 2023. It is a free event, open to all people. For more information or to find a participating cemetery near you, please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.