The National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum (NLEMM) has announced that Officer Jose A. Gonzalez, Jr., of the Hanover Borough (PA) Police Department is the Officer of the Month for February 2022. Gonzalez Jr. was honored for his "acts of community service" and "police professionalism at its finest," NLEMM says.

During a heavy snow storm in January 2022, Officer Gonzalez was at a convenience store and shoveled snow for a cashier who could not do so. "Showing sympathy towards a stranger and assisting with snow shoveling is just one of the many reasons Officer Gonzalez is an outstanding role model and leader in his community," NLEMM says.

Officer Gonzalez’s philosophy is to do the same communal work to the best of his ability whenever the opportunity presents itself and to give time and resources to help the people of Hanover, NLEMM says. The Marine veteran believes in the “treat others the way you’d like to be treated” mentality, helping to change the narrative in the way the community views the Hanover Bureau Police Department.

It’s the acts of selflessness and service that have been recognized by others in the community who have seen Officer Gonzalez and other officers in Hanover go the extra mile with their own random acts of kindness that help continue to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and community members, NLEMM says.

 “We would like to congratulate Officer Gonzalez for the acts of kindness he has displayed to residents of Hanover, exemplifying outstanding character and flawless community service,” says Marcia Ferranto, CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. “He epitomizes what all officers should be every day they put the uniform on and we are truly honored to recognize his leadership.”

Gonzalez, Jr. joined the Hanover Police Department nine years ago and is currently a firearms and TASER instructor for the department. He has previously received one commendation and three Letters of Achievement from the department for his work.

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.