RALEIGH, NC— For his years of service and dedication to wildlife enforcement, Maj. Todd Kennedy of the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission became the state's first recipient of the Guy Bradley Award at the Commission's business meeting on Thursday, April 20. The award recognizes extraordinary individuals who have made an outstanding lifetime contribution to wildlife law enforcement, wildlife forensics or investigative techniques.
The Guy Bradley Award is named after a Florida game warden who became the first wildlife law enforcement agent killed in the line of duty in 1905. The national award, which was established by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in 1988, is presented to one state and one federal recipient each year.
"Major Kennedy's multi-level career in law enforcement has had a tremendous impact on the health and security of wildlife in North Carolina," said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of the NFWF. "The dedication that he has demonstrated in protecting wildlife and natural resources is inspiring, and NFWF is pleased to recognize and honor his efforts with the 2017 Guy Bradley Award."
Kennedy began his career by attending the wildlife basic training academy in 1990. In the years since, he progressively moved up through the ranks, including stints as a field training officer and supervisor of the Commission's canine program. After being promoted to area sergeant in 2005 and lieutenant in 2008, it became clear that he was destined for leadership.
In 2010, he was promoted to district captain and, following the retirement of Maj. Jack Staley in 2011, Kennedy was promoted to his current role as major of field operations. In this role, he supervises nine district captains and the special investigations lieutenant, and oversees all law enforcement operations for the Commission's Law Enforcement Division.
"I was always that officer that wanted to challenge the process," Kennedy said. "As I was promoted up through the chain, I gained a real love for leadership. I studied different philosophies and attended many leadership programs, then finally developed my own style."
Previously, Kennedy was honored with the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife (SEAFWA) Officer of the Year award in 1997 and 2006, and with the National Wild Turkey Federation Officer of the Year award in 2005.
Gordon Myers, the Commission's executive director, presented the award on Thursday. Kennedy received a ceremonial plaque and a $1,000 check from the NFWF.
"It's his focus on leadership development that may stand out among his greatest accomplishments," said Gordon Myers, the Commission's executive director. "Major Kennedy has been instrumental in leadership initiatives throughout our agency and the community. It's truly a pleasure to present to him this well-deserved award."
Col. Jon Evans of the Commission nominated Kennedy for the award in January. Kennedy accepted his award in front of an audience consisting of co-workers, commissioners and family members.
"Conservation law enforcement is unique," said Kennedy, who plans to retire from the Commission in 2018. "I do it because I enjoy it. And I believe in the mission. That's what Guy Bradley believed in, and that's what our officers believe in. I'm honored by this award and appreciate the nomination and support."
Editor's note: A photo of Maj. Todd Kennedy (left) posing with Col. Jon Evans is attached.
About the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission
Since 1947, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state's fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use, and public input. The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities. To learn more, visit www.ncwildlife.org.
Media contact:
Ryan Kennemur
919-707-0186
ryan.kennemur@ncwildlife.org
