Elgin Police Officer And Firefighter Honored As Officers of The Year By American Legion

Two Elgin First Responders Receive Statewide Recognition For Excellence

Elgin police detective Paul Dublinski and Elgin fire Lt. Pat Rasmussen were named police officer and firefighter of the year by American Legion Post 57. The awards recognize years of dedicated service to the Elgin community.

Elgin Police Chief Ana Lalley praised Dublinski in a social media post for his professionalism and thoroughness in handling cases. Lalley noted that Dublinski approaches each assigned case with a calm and thoughtful manner while maintaining excellent detail-oriented work.

Dublinski also takes the time to teach the next generation of police officers on how to conduct traffic crash investigations and DUI investigations. He instructs new officers on how to conduct traffic stops as well.

Rasmussen has served as an instructor in the fire departments training division since 2016. The fire department promoted him to lead instructor for multicompany training in 2023. He now coordinates monthly training efforts across the department.

As a founding member of the department peer support team, Rasmussen dedicated six years to helping members navigate on- and off-the-job stress. The fire department noted his significant contributions to team welfare during that period.

Rasmussen has also coordinated the departments annual report since 2014. His work ensures that documentation of department operations remains accurate and complete for all stakeholders.

The American Legion Post 57 selected these two officers to receive the annual honors. Both Dublinski and Rasmussen represent the highest standards of public service in Elgin.

Paul approaches each assigned case with professionalism and thoroughness in a calm, thoughtful and very detail-oriented manner, displaying excellence in all he does

Chief Ana Lalley

The awards ceremony highlights the ongoing commitment of Elgin first responders to serve their community with integrity and dedication.