SRO/Deputy Lyons Named 2025 Community Hero Award: Police Officer Edition Recipient
Defiance, OH-Midwest Community Federal Credit Union is proud to announce that Deputy Lyons has been named the 2025 Community Hero Award: Police Officer Edition recipient, recognizing his outstanding service, compassion, and dedication to the community.
“The Community Hero Award is our way of shining a spotlight on people who quietly go the extra mile. Deputy Lyons is the perfect example of the heart and integrity we want to celebrate — someone who serves with both courage and compassion.” Said Emily Schlegel Community Development Manager
As a School Resource Officer, Lyons pours his energy into protecting and supporting students. Known for never giving up on the young people he works with, Lyons is admired for his kindness, patience, and unwavering belief in those he serves.
“I believe gratitude is powerful, and Officer Lyons does a hard job, often without recognition. This award is our way of saying, you matter, and we see you,” said Schlegel.
Lyons was honored with a plaque recognizing his contributions as well as a gift basket, including items for his k-9 Duke.
Other Police Officers nominated for this award are the following officers from around the area:
Josh Flanary, Nick Cunningham, Scott Campbell, Jason Landers, Rodney Miller, David Speiser, Frank Herbert, Mark Figert, Lee Martinez, Brandon Shuherk, Stormy Doctor, William McConnell, Jacob Vorce, Elijah Fackler, Duane Gorrell, Cierra Moran, Isaiah Rittenhouse, Noah Becher, Brent Eicher, Ryan Daman, Brett Belew, Kyle Thurlwell, Mark Denning, Brion Hanenkratt, Nate Trausch & K9 Finn, Garrett Franz, Fabian Aguilar, Jacob Hardy, Zach Higgins, Kelley Foor, Ben Williams, Caleb Miller and Gina Weidenhamer.
For one of the nominations submitted for Deputy Lyons, it was stated, “The Nominators (multiple) said: ‘Billy Lyons is the definition of an everyday hero. As a School Resource Officer, EMT, D.A.R.E. Officer, Deputy and volunteer EMS coordinator, he pours compassion and commitment into everything he does. Whether he’s securing school safety, supporting students’ mental health, coaching wrestling, or responding to emergencies, Billy always shows up with heart and purpose. He’s helped develop mental health protocols, including 24/7 anonymous support access and “Handle with Care” notices for students facing hardship. His K9 partner, Duke, has become a powerful emotional support tool-once helping a non-verbal child reveal abuse by responding through Duke’s fur. Billy has received two Life Saving Awards, a MADD Award, and was named Deputy of the Year, voted by his peers. He has also taken on roles far beyond his job description, including launching a Community Health Day, running the D.A.R.E. program across multiple schools, and stepping up in times of crisis —even opening his home to a child while the family was going through an unimaginable loss. Whether it’s comforting students after tragedy, checking on neighbors after a storm, or mentoring kids who need guidance, Billy never stops serving —with selflessness, empathy, and extraordinary dedication.’ “
About Midwest Community Federal Credit Union
Midwest Community Federal Credit Union is committed to serving its members and supporting the community through outreach programs, partnerships, and initiatives that celebrate local heroes.
