Tulsa Police Officer, Firefighter Of Year Honored With 'Above And Beyond' Awards

Founded in 2008, the Rotary Club of Tulsa's "Above and Beyond Awards" recognize Tulsa's police officer and firefighter of the year.

The event acknowledges these public servants for outstanding acts of character, commitment and compassion to both their profession and community.

Recipients are nominated by their peers and selected by a committee of the Rotary Club of Tulsa.

A 31-year TPD veteran, Det. Elizabeth Eagan was selected as police officer of the year. She has spent the last 11 years working in the Sex Crimes Unit

When not protecting our community's most vulnerable citizens, Detective Eagan is an active volunteer with Going Home Animal Rescue & Transport, an organization that transports animals between rescue groups and municipal shelters that are over capacity so they have an opportunity to become adoptable pets.

The Rotary Club of Tulsa will honor Det. Eagan with a $1,000 donation to the Going Home Animal Rescue & Transport organization.

Raymond Beard, a 13-year fire department veteran and driver for Station 22, was named firefighter of the year.

TFD said Beard embodies the meaning of ‘service above self'. In addition to protecting and serving Tulsa citizens as a dedicated firefighter, Beard is a dedicated and active member of the East Virgin Street Church of Christ.

When Beard learned that a fellow church member was in search of a kidney donor, he volunteered to undergo the necessary testing and it was determined he was a match.

Beard donated his kidney to the congregation member and used his sick leave and vacation time to provide the gift of life to another human being, TFD said.

To honor Beard's service, the Rotary Club will donate $1,000 to the Tulsa Youth Athletic Association.