Bloomington, Minn., -  Thirty-six accomplishment awards were presented at the 2011 Annual All Hands Meeting honoring the Security Officers of Mall of America for their outstanding performance, consistent leadership and contribution to Mall safety and security initiatives. Among those presented were four life saving awards, 20 achievement awards and 12 guest service awards. The following officers were recognized for their tireless effort as a team member to achieve high levels of performance and make corporate and/or community contributions:

Meritorious Service Award Jessica Hinz

                                            Will Bernhjelm

                                            Tom Schroedl

                                            Roy Nielsen

Officer of the year            Neil Throndson

                                            John Steele

                                            Darrell Pridgen

                                            Jon Stetler

Officer of the month         Kyle Waterstreet

Life Saving Award              Kyle Waterstreet

                                            Nathan Johnson

Deflection of the month    Joseph Kauser

Achievement Award         Joseph Osuji

                                            Cody Pearson

                                            Joseph Cowzer

                                            Sean McArdle

In 2011 more than 4,500 hours were spent on significant Mall events including the 10 year anniversary of 9/11, celebrity appearances drawing crowds exceeding 5,000 and a midnight opening on Black Friday- an event MOA had never experienced. “On all of these incidences, officers persevered and handled themselves professionally,” said Captain Will Bernjhelm.

Over the last year security officers responded to over 113,500 calls for service, up from 110,750 in 2010 and acted in response to 4,000 reports. This experience does not come without proper training and intense preparation. Mall of America held four instructor courses, two of which were hosted by the Mall. Four K-9 handlers were certified with the United States Police Canine Association, two instructors in Crisis Intervention, and ten bike officers through the International Police Mountain Bike Association. Mall of America is proud to honor the continued high level of performance, established leadership and exceptional courage of our security officers.

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