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The work that Milwaukee VA police officers do — especially when it comes to incidents involving mental health breakdowns — was recognized by a Veterans group Wednesday. The Veterans Advocacy

Council presented the police force with the Bethany Award, which recognizes those who go above and beyond in serving Veterans. The timing of the award was apropos, as it came during

National Police Week. “They are incredible,” Milwaukee VA Acting Executive Director Laurie Vail said of the police department. “We are so fortunate to have such a dedicated group of officers

integrated into our health care team, helping us provide our best care to our Veterans.” Retired Walworth County Sheriff’s Deputy Wayne Blanchard, representing the council, praised the

officers for an approach that emphasizes empathy, education and building personal relationships. “You see people possibly on their worst day ever, and you talk them down,” he said. “There

are times when you have to throw on the cuffs, but that’s not your first response to dealing with Veterans. “You are having more conversations with Veterans routinely. … It’s more personable

relationships,” he said. “I think Veterans and their families feel comfortable coming to you guys.” Dr. Jason Burns, co-manager of the Milwaukee VA’s mental health division, agreed. Burns

said he crossed paths with police quite often during his time working in emergency psychiatry. “I really deeply understand what a great job you are doing,” he told the officers. “It’s a big

part of our culture, and you do a lot of important work.” Accepting the award on behalf of the department, Police Chief Martin Runge praised his officers. “These men and women go out there

and do it every day,” he said. “Their compassion, their empathy and their collaboration among the Veterans and employees just make me really proud. It’s an honor to have this award.” ABOUT

THE BETHANY AWARD Started in 2017, the Bethany Award is named in honor of Dr. Jacqueline Bethany, a psychologist with the Veterans Health Administration. In Milwaukee, she ran the

Compensated Work Therapy program and was known for her dedication and enthusiasm for helping Veterans. She moved to Tennessee and the VA in Memphis to be closer to her parents. She died in

2016 at age 60.