Sun applauds Edward CEO, police for CAPS awards

Twice each year - in the spring and in the fall - Naperville public safety personnel are honored by the organization Citizens Appreciate Public Safety.

In the spring, a CAPS dinner and award ceremony salutes Naperville police personnel. In the fall, fire department staff members are honored.

These Naperville public servants more often than not have not only served auspiciously on the job, but often also have given community service in their private lives.

It's the Police Department's turn Friday, and a number of officers will be given awards for their achievements both on and off the job.

We think this is an excellent program, and Naperville's fine police and fire personnel certainly deserve their moment in the sun.

We would also note, though, that the job of the police is made a bit easier, and sometimes possible at all, through the help of public-spirited citizens who aid law enforcement.

In Naperville, these include such organizations as Community Radio Watch and Crime Stoppers, as well as individuals who take action well beyond the normal scope of their lives.

This year, CAPS is bestowing Edward Hospital President and Chief Executive Officer Pam Davis with its Special Recognition Award.

Davis is being lauded for wearing a wire and helping the Federal Bureau of Investigation in a meeting involving the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board and certain members' alleged activities involving kickbacks from hospitals seeking state approval for their expansion plans.

The importance of citizen involvement in the fight against crime was summed up aptly by FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Grant, who will present the award to Davis.

"In a democracy, the trust and cooperation of the people being served has been the foundation on which effective law enforcement is sustained. The assistance provided by Ms. Davis was invaluable, and demonstrated her character and commitment to public integrity."

We echo that sentiment and applaud Pam Davis for her assistance in the cause of justice and her service to the community.

We also applaud all the other CAPS award recipients for their service to Naperville.