An award-winning Lehighton police officer has received a promotion to the position of corporal.

Borough council on Monday appointed officer Bruce Broyles to the position of Corporal

Borough police Chief Joe Sparich thanked the borough’s Civil Service Commission, along with borough council, “for all their work and cooperation in making this promotion possible.”

“I would like to extend my congratulations to officer Broyles on his well-deserved promotion,” Sparich said. “As we all know, being a police officer is not just a job, but a calling. It requires courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to serve and protect our community.

“Officer Broyles has exemplified these qualities throughout his over a decade of service, and it is with great pride that we publicly recognize his achievements.”

Sparich said that throughout his career, Broyles “has demonstrated professionalism and a commitment to uphold the law and maintain public safety.”

He noted that on several occasions, Broyles has been named “Top Gun” by the Pennsylvania DUI Association in recognition of his efforts in impaired driving enforcement, and “keeping our roadways safe for our families and the community.”

Sparich said that as a Field Training Officer, Broyles’ leadership skills have been evident through his willingness to mentor and guide newly-hired officers.

He noted that Broyles is also relied upon to assist his fellow officers though his certification as a Drug Recognition Expert, and as an instructor in the use of the Taser.

“As a newly promoted supervisor, I have no doubt that officer Broyles will continue to excel and make significant contributions to our department and the community we serve,” Sparich said.

Afterward, Sparich called Broyles’ wife, Brooke, up front to assist him in pinning the corporal rank insignia to Broyles’ collar.

“As Brooke joins us, I would like to express my appreciation to the families of all police officers,” Sparich said. “Without their sacrifice and support, we would never be able to do the job we do.”

After the meeting, Broyles said there was a process for which he had to apply for the position, pass a written exam, and go before an oral board.

“I’m thankful to the borough, thankful for the recommendation, grateful, pleased,” Broyles said. “I want to thank Chief (Sparich) for the kind words, the Civil Service Commission for the recommendation, and thank council for the approval, and try to help make the department a better place.”

Along with his wife, Broyles was accompanied by their children, Layla and Mia Broyles, his mother, Sandra Boyles, and his mother-in-law, Melissa Faust.