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The Franklin City Council took a moment at its Jan. 24 meeting to honor recently retired Franklin Police Department Sgt. Brent O. Gayle for his 24 years of service to the department, the public and the city.

The council unanimously adopted a resolution of appreciation for Gayle, which Ward 1 Councilman Mark R. Kitchen read in full at the meeting.

The resolution notes that throughout his career with the FPD, Gayle has shown his dedication to the department and the citizens of the city.

“Sgt. Gayle has maintained a high level of professionalism that has gained him great respect with staff, city officials and surrounding agencies,” the resolution states. “His personal demeanor has facilitated many accomplishments and has earned for him the respect of his peers.”

The document notes Gayle has been awarded multiple times for his excellent service, including acknowledgements from citizens, co-workers and supervisors, letters of recognition dealing with dangerous suspects, victims of crimes and service to the community.

Gayle has received a Star Performer Award for his leadership and service to the communications division, as well as several departmental commendations for his actions, the resolution states. 

The resolution also recognizes the effort Gayle put into his own training, noting that he has attended several schools, including First Line Supervisors School from the Virginia State Police and Leadership in Changing Times from the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police.

In conclusion, the resolution states, “Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the Franklin City Council honors the exceptional service of Sgt. Brent O. Gayle.

“And, be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be spread upon the minutes of this meeting of the Franklin City Council as visible evidence of the high esteem in which this council and the citizens of the city of Franklin hold Sgt. Brent O. Gayle thereby forever preserving and recording its gratitude.”

After the resolution was adopted, Franklin Mayor Frank M. Rabil presented Gayle with a plaque from the city of Franklin that honored him for the guidance and outstanding leadership he has provided the FPD and Franklin citizens for the last 24 years.

This led to a standing ovation, after which Franklin City Manager Amanda C. Jarratt shared a few comments.

“If I may — from a staff perspective — just say that Sgt. Gayle has been a tremendous asset to the city during — as was read in the resolution — (the last) 24 years, but during my tenure (he) has been absolutely incredible to the department,” she said. “I know Chief (Steve) Patterson would say the same thing if he was at the podium.

“(Sgt. Gayle) has gotten us out of many a bind and performed IT work not only for the police department but for the city, and I personally appreciate him very much and just wanted to state it for the record,” Jarratt added. “And hopefully we’ll see him maybe soon in some capacity.”