‘A huge honor:’ Community servants recognized by Gaston Jaycees

Gastonia Police officer Heath Stanley is prepared to rush into dangerous situations. But it was the SWAT Team member’s actions at a restaurant, not a hostage situation, that garnered him praise on Wednesday night. Stanley 28, was named Outstanding Gastonia Police Officer of the year during the annual Gaston County Jaycees Distinguished Service Awards for saving a choking child’s life.

Stanley is humble about the experience — he said he was just acting on instinct.

He joined a cast of law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics and business owners and members of the education community given awards at the event.

“It shows support for what we do, and it’s a good reminder that the community still cares for us and respects us,” Stanley said.

Josh Watts, who was named Gastonia Firefighter of the Year, agreed. The 22-year-old was recognized for volunteerism and a tireless commitment to to his department.

He says he chose to be a firefighter to follow in the footsteps of his father — a retired assistant fire chief.

“It is a huge honor,” Watts said. “It’s something not everybody gets to experience. The captains and chief I have been able to work with have had a great influence on my career.”

Pharr Yarns CEO Bill Carstarphen, a member of several community-focused boards, was given the W. Duke Kimbrell Lifetime Civic Achievement Award.

Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Geno Paluso, a decorated SEAL officer and the current commandant of cadets at The Citadel military college in Charleston, South Carolina, was the keynote speaker. Paluso used his time to share how skills he learned “leading young men and women under pressure” can be applied to civilian life.

Paluso said he, too, felt honored to be asked to speak but that he was inspired by the local awardees.

“Just being in your presence is very humbling for me, quite frankly," Paluso said. “It’s all about the awardees tonight and what they do for the community.”

You can reach Dashiell Coleman at 704-869-1819 or on Twitter @DashiellColeman