The Green Bay Packers continued one of their most meaningful community traditions this spring by recognizing Wisconsin law enforcement officers through the Protect and Serve Award program. The annual event highlighted officers and departments that demonstrated exceptional commitment to their communities while reinforcing the organization’s connection to public service across the state.
The ceremony was held at Johnsonville Tailgate Village near Lambeau Field and brought together officers, family members, department leaders and community supporters. Award recipients were honored during a special dinner and presentation that celebrated acts of leadership, dedication and service performed throughout Wisconsin during the past year.
This year’s recognition included 12 individual recipients along with honors for a K-9 unit, a school resource officer and a law enforcement department. Officers from communities including Grafton, Madison, Milwaukee, Sun Prairie, Stevens Point and Superior were among those recognized for work that extended beyond their everyday responsibilities. The Green Bay Police Department also received a department award for its role in helping manage operations surrounding the 2025 NFL Draft.
Each recipient received a handcrafted wooden American flag along with a $2,000 grant designated for a department initiative or nonprofit organization. The awards were created by Oneida Police Sergeant Nathan Ness, whose woodworking business produced the custom pieces presented during the ceremony. The grants were funded through a partnership involving the Packers and the NFL Foundation.
Green Bay Packers Honor Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officers With Special Award Ahead of New NFL Season
The organization has given out a special award for Wisconsin’s finest ahead of the 2026 NFL season. This can be seen in a report posted on the team’s official website.
The Green Bay Packers recognized several exemplary Wisconsin law enforcement officers this week for going above and beyond the call of duty with the Packers Protect & Serve Award.
The recipients received a special award and a $2,000 grant to benefit their department or a nonprofit. They were treated to a luncheon and an award presentation, as well as speeches from Packers player Matt Orzech and Chief Davis from the Green Bay Police Department. Several award winners attended with their family members, friends, fellow officers and superiors.
NFL long snapper Matt Orzech participated in the event and joined organizational representatives in recognizing the honorees. The evening also featured remarks from Green Bay law enforcement leaders who emphasized the importance of community support and public appreciation for officers serving throughout Wisconsin.
The Protect and Serve Award has now become an established part of the Packers’ community outreach efforts, reaching its fifth year in 2026. As the franchise prepares for another football season, the event served as a reminder that the organization’s impact extends beyond the field through programs that celebrate service, leadership and commitment to local communities across the state.
