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by Danielle Frawley

Sergeant Al Fortin has been a police officer in Shelburne for 21 years. For the past 15 years, Fortin has been actively involved with the Vermont Governor's Highway Safety Program, (GHSP) and he recently won its Sergeant Michael Johnson Award. Sergeant Johnson was an officer that was killed in 2003 on Interstate 91 after placing spikes on the highway to stop a suspect who was being pursued by other officers. Fortin and others knew Sergeant Johnson, as he had spent 16 years on the force throughout the state.
According to the GHSP, "The award is presented each year to a Vermont Police officer who demonstrates dedication to highway safety efforts."

Sergeant Fortin is the program manager for the GHSP in Shelburne and Chittenden County, the coordinator for the regional enforcement of DUI, a certified passenger safety technician, a senior child seat technician checker, and coordinator and team captain for the work zone regional mobilization "Click It or Ticket" program.

Sergeant Fortin also is responsible for a Chittenden County grant with regard to DWI safety and aggressive driving. Another grant under Fortin's domain is a tri-town grant for South Burlington, Shelburne, and Hinesburg. Fortin is responsible to apply and administer the grants.

The award was presented to Sergeant Fortin at a March 23 Life Saver's Award luncheon. The event was a large one, with officers in attendance from around the entire state.

Sergeant Fortin said he was not expecting the award at all saying, "I guess they felt I was deserving." This humble police officer has also received GHSP's 2007 Lifesaver of the Year award.

"Sergeant Fortin is a visionary who makes a significant difference not only as a police officer, but as an educator with talent and passion," said Betsy Ross, public information officer for GHSP.