The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) honored Sgt. Andres Perez and Officers Rosey Bautista, Michael Wall, and Alexandra Fallacaro of the Bradenton (FL) Police Department as the Officers of the Month for September 2026. The officers were recognized for their response to a nighttime rescue that brought a man in distress to safety.

Just before 9 p.m., Bradenton police officers responded to reports of a man calling for help in the Manatee River. Officers could hear the man but initially could not locate him in the darkness. According to reports, the man had been in the water for at least an hour.

Officers enlisted a civilian boater to search the river while others remained on shore and listened for his voice. After locating him in the water, officers aboard the boat reassured him and encouraged him to climb aboard.

After several minutes, he was able to get onto the boat and was transported to a hospital by emergency medical personnel for evaluation and treatment.

“These officers demonstrated teamwork, quick thinking, and a commitment to public safety in locating and rescuing a man in distress,” said Bill Alexander, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “We are proud to recognize their actions and dedication to serving their community as the Officers of the Month for September.”

The Officer of the Month Award Program is sponsored by the Police Unity Tour and recognizes federal, state, and local officers who distinguish themselves through exemplary law enforcement service and devotion to duty.