MPD honors citizens, members of police force with Merit Awards

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Milwaukee police officials gathered Wednesday evening, May 15th to recognize the heroism and outstanding work of both citizens and members of the Milwaukee Police Department.

The Spring Merit Awards Ceremony was held Wednesday evening at the Milwaukee Police Academy, located at 6680 N. Teutonia Avenue.

The ceremony coincides this year with National Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week.

One of those honored Wednesday evening was Katheryn Anderer, the partner of Officer Joshua Albert, who was seriously injured in a crash on I-94, involving a drunk driver.

On September 5th, Anderer was following Albert home, when he was struck head-on by Erin Salmon, who has been convicted of driving drunk, leading to the wrong-way crash.

Anderer witnessed the crash.

"I had to switch from the friend mode back to the police mode and just tell him to stay with me," Anderer said.

While technically off the clock, Anderer found herself back on the job. She kept calm in the face of chaos, and did her best to comfort and talk with Albert.

Anderer also rode with Albert to Froedtert Hospital, and stayed by the operating room during his surgery. Albert would eventually leave the hospital with the support of many others.

Albert was there as Anderer received her award Wednesday night. The two drove to the ceremony together, in an MPD squad. This, for the first time since the crash.

CLICK HERE for additional information on those honored Wednesday evening.