The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) honored Chief Aaron Edwards and Sgt. Luis Navarro of the New York City (NY) Police Department as the Officers of the Month for March 2026. Edwards and Navarro are being recognized for their actions in a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) incident in New York City.

In early March, NYPD officers responded to reports that two individuals had thrown an explosive device into a public area near Gracie Mansion in New York City. When Edwards and Navarro arrived on the scene, they immediately moved toward the area, while additional units began securing the surrounding area.

As the situation developed, Edwards located the suspects moments before they were able to deploy another IED and tackled one of the individuals. At the same time, Navarro ran toward another lit explosive device to address the immediate threat and protect individuals in the vicinity.

“Chief Edwards and Sergeant Navarro responded as the situation unfolded, prioritizing the safety of others, in critical incidents like this, officers are required to make immediate decisions with public safety at stake,” said Bill Alexander, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “Their actions reflect the role officers serve in responding to unpredictable threats on a daily basis.”

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