Above, from left to right: Melissa Swift, firefighter/paramedic Jake Heflin, Fire Chief Mike DuRee, Police Chief Robert Luna, Jenny Roberts, Officer Tammie Stilinovich and Long Beach Police Foundation President Bruce DD Mac Rae. Photo courtesy of LBPD.

The Long Beach Chamber of Commerce honored the city’s police and fire departments during an appreciation luncheon downtown on Tuesday, thanking those who protect the community and courageously respond to emergencies.

The event, held at the Hyatt Regency hotel, recognized select sworn and civilian employees for their work.

The following persons were selected as Employees of the Year:

Long Beach Fire Department:

  • Firefighter/paramedic Jacob C. Heflin
  • Payroll Assistant III Melissa E. Swift

Long Beach Police Department:

  • Officer Tammie Stilinovich
  • Bureau Secretary Jennifer Roberts

The chamber also presented a $20,000 check for the Police and Fire Memorial, which will be developed with the reconstruction of the new civic center.

Long Beach Officer Shot by Al Capone Henchmen Honored During City’s Police and Fire Memorial

The memorial will pay tribute to all the police officers and firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice in order to keep the community safe.

Stephanie Rivera is the community engagement editor. Reach her at [email protected] or on Twitter at @StephRivera88.