OAK ISLAND, N.C. – During a recent Oak Island Town Council meeting on December 9, Police Chief Charlie Morris of the Oak Island Police Department was honored with a Meritorious Service Award by Southport Police Chief Todd Coring. This prestigious award is among the highest honors presented by the Southport Police Department.
In addition to the award, Chief Morris received an SPD challenge coin and a custom-framed print showcasing the Southport waterfront. The recognition was bestowed upon him in appreciation of his exemplary response during a mass shooting incident that occurred on September 27 at the American Fish Company.
Chief Coring highlighted the vital collaboration between the Oak Island and Southport police forces, commending Chief Morris for his effective and calm leadership during a challenging situation. He remarked that Morris’s actions reflect positively on himself, his family, and the Oak Island Police Department.
In a statement following the award ceremony, Chief Morris expressed gratitude for the recognition and underscored the significance of strong partnerships among regional law enforcement agencies. He stated, “Protecting our communities starts with strong relationships and partnerships built long before an incident occurs. In this case, these established relationships with our neighboring agencies is what made such a quick arrest possible.”
Morris emphasized that through continuous collaboration, they can enhance public safety and provide exceptional law enforcement services. His comments resonated with a hopeful outlook, stressing that while preventing evil acts entirely may not be feasible, the bonds formed among first responders are crucial in facing such challenges effectively.