Sergeant Batista has served with the New South Wales Police Force for almost 25 years, and has worked tirelessly in his current position as Education Development Officer within the Monaro Local Area Command, based out of the Queanbeyan Police Station.

He said he was overwhelmed and honoured to receive the award.

“It hasn’t really sunk in at the moment. I’m a bit overwhelmed,” Seargent Batista said yesterday.

“It’s something that’s very special, and something that I’ll always treasure. It’s up there with the most memorable moments in my life, especially in my policing career.”

Seargent Batista was singled out for his mentoring of younger officers in the force, as well as his commitment to visiting former officers and his work in raising support for the families of officers killed in the line of duty.

“I think that they all contributed a lot to the police force and the communities they served, and I think that it’s only fair that we current police officers continue to keep in touch with them and acknowledge that we care.”

But it’s not all hard work, he said.

“I love what I do; I love being a policeman. It’s probably an old cliche, but it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I love working with my colleagues, and I love working for the community.”

Seargent Batista will be presented with his medal by the Governor General at a ceremony at Government House in April.

Acting NSW Police Commissioner Nick Kaldas congratulated all nine officers on their awards.

“I’m extremely proud that they have been nominated by their peers, their commanders or members of the public,” he said.

“The Australian Police Medal is recognition of the dedicated service they have each provided to the NSW Police Force over a number of years, and I know personally the dedication they bring to the job.”

“It’s a credit to the communities that they serve that these officers are recognised at this prestigious level,” Acting Commissioner Kaldas said.