Fall River Police Will Receive Hanna Bravery Award
The city’s police department will be honored this Wednesday at the 43rd Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Awards
The Fall River Police Department will be among five departments receiving recognition at the 43rd Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. Governor Maura Healey will present the honors to 18 total recipients for their acts of courage.
Why it matters
These awards serve as the Commonwealth of Massachusetts' highest honor for law enforcement, recognizing officers who have displayed exceptional bravery in the line of duty. The ceremony honors the legacy of State Trooper George Hanna, who was killed in the line of duty in 1983.
The 43rd annual ceremony acknowledges 18 total honorees across five different police departments. The award is named for State Trooper George Hanna, who died in the line of duty in 1983.
The players
Governor Maura Healey
She serves as the current Governor of Massachusetts and is responsible for presenting the state's highest law enforcement honors.
Fall River Police Department
This local municipal agency provides law enforcement and public safety services to the residents of Fall River.
George L. Hanna
He was a Massachusetts State Trooper who was killed in the line of duty in 1983 and is the namesake for the state's highest bravery award.
The details
Governor Maura Healey will preside over the ceremony to acknowledge the 18 recipients for their courageous service. The event highlights the commitment of departments across the state to public safety.
Timeline
State Trooper George Hanna died in the line of duty in 1983.
The 43rd Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards ceremony takes place on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
Culture Shift
The ceremony represents a consistent societal emphasis on honoring service and sacrifice within the public safety sector. It follows a long-standing tradition established by the state to recognize acts of valor by law enforcement personnel.
Residents may notice temporary logistical adjustments or increased police presence in the area surrounding the event location during the ceremony. This recognition serves to highlight the ongoing professional commitment of the department serving the local community.
The takeaway
This event highlights the state's ongoing commitment to acknowledging the dangers and risks faced by local police officers. Residents are reminded of the critical role these public servants play in maintaining safety within their daily lives.
Further reading
Learn more about local recognition and honors in our Awards section.
