Deleware State Police Sergeant Tapped for Award
Honor commemorating state trooper goes to 17-year veteran
By Mike Billington, The News Journal
September 4, 2006
Sgt. Vincent Fiscella is the third police officer to receive the award from The Ronald G. Williams foundation. Sgt. Vincent Fiscella, a 17-year Delaware State Police veteran whose peers praise his commitment to always "do the right thing," has been chosen to receive the third annual Legacy of Honor Award from The Ronald G. Williams Foundation.
The organization was co-founded by Catherine Kennedy and Jennifer Hawkins in honor of their brother, a highly respected state trooper who died in an auto accident in 2002. They established the award to honor police officers who best exemplify his commitment to duty, honor and service, Kennedy said. "The award seemed like a good way to encourage the kind of commitment to duty, honor, loyalty and serving others that were hallmarks of Ronnie's life," Kennedy said.
"Ronnie had a compassion for others that came through in the way he worked with colleagues, in his dedication to the job, his expertise in many different areas and his service to the community," she said. "We didn't want that sense of commitment to be lost in the next generation of law enforcement." State police Major Joe Papili, last year's winner, agreed.
"Ron Williams was a personal friend of mine and a fellow trooper that was always willing to give of himself to help others no matter what the circumstances," he said. 'I'm truly humbled by the award'
Fiscella, who is also president of the Delaware State Troopers Association, was nominated by his peers and chosen because of his continued integrity in serving the community, Kenned said. A Hockessin resident, Fiscella said he was pleased when told he was this year's recipient.
"While in my eyes others are more deserving, I'm truly humbled by the award. Ronnie was a dedicated trooper and friend, and to be part of his legacy is something that I will always cherish," he said. Papili said Fiscella is an excellent choice for the award.
"He is one of the most dedicated, caring and unselfish people I know. He is very trustworthy, honest and committed to doing the right thing for the right reason," Papili said. In addition, he said, Fiscella "is a man of his word, dedicated to giving back to the community that he serves and is extremely dedicated to his family and faith. A true team player."
Fiscella said he became a state trooper out of a desire to be part of an elite organization, one with a rich tradition and history. He said he has remained a trooper because it offers him new challenges and an opportunity to serve his community. "I enjoy the many challenges of policing," he said, adding that "frankly, there has never been a time in our lives so important as now to serve in this profession."
Although the foundation grew out of tragedy, its mission has always been a positive one, Papili said. Foundation also doles out scholarships. In addition to the Legacy of Honor award, the foundation gives out three annual scholarships to high school students in the region. It also serves as a support organization for law enforcement personnel and their families.
"The foundation has and continues to provide the opportunity for those in law enforcement to gather for fundraisers, community and social events, to share common experiences and to provide a sense of relief and compassion to those who are experiencing the same loss that the Williams family has gone through," he said.
Fiscella will receive his award Sept. 22 at the foundation's annual dinner at the White Clay Creek Country Club in Stanton. Contact Mike Billington at 324-2761 or mbillington@delawareonline.com.
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