A willingness to throw himself fully into each project and always go the extra mile were recurring themes when other described Jeff Bergeron, the Bogalusa Police Department’s officer of the year, who enjoyed a very memorable 31st birthday at Tuesday’s Rotary Club of Bogalusa meeting.

For several years now, the local Rotary Club has honored the areas top police officers, deputies, firefighters and teachers.

“We’re thankful for all the police officers who serve our community,” said Rotary member George Bateman before turning the microphone over to Bogalusa Police Chief Joe Culpepper.

“Jeff, since he got here, has always jumped in and helped in any way he could,” said Culpepper.

Bergeron also heads up the department’s continuing training endeavor, called Police Officer Standards Training, or POST.

“Jeff took on this obstacle,” said Culpepper. “I appreciate the effort he has made.”

Bergeron’s supervisor, Capt. Kendall Bullen, added, “Jeff is way ahead of everyone when it comes to being willing to do what needs to be done. I wish I had 10 more like him.”

When Bergeron, who is an Iraq war veteran and still serves in the Army National Guard, stepped up to the podium to accept the recognition, he was quick to credit his colleagues.

“I was set up for success,” he said.

He also pointed the spotlight at his family, and especially his parents.

“Because of them, I have the work ethic that I have,” he said. “I’ve learned to give more of myself than what is just required of me.”

He added, “I truly am honored and humbled by this.”

Next week, the Rotary Club of Bogalusa will shift its program to Cassidy Park, where the club will plant a live oak, to be known as the Centennial Tree. The program will start at approximately 12:45 p.m., and the public is invited to attend.