Acushnet Police Officer who was shot in Fairhaven is honored

: Acushnet Police Officer, Kevin Martins, receives the George L. Hanna Medal of Valor from Mass. Governor Maura Healey during a ceremony on 11/26/24 at the state house, for his actions on 12/29/23 at a standoff at the Bayside in Fairhaven where Officer Martins was shot. Photo courtesy of the Mass. Governor’s office.

From Press Release Materials

Acushnet Police Officer Kevin Martins received the 2024 Hanna Award/Medal of Valor for his actions at a Fairhaven standoff at the Bayside in Fairhaven on 12/29/23, when Officer Martins was shot in the leg.

Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, and Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy honored the bravery and sacrifice of Massachusetts law enforcement officers at the 41st Annual Trooper George L. Hanna Memorial Awards for Bravery at the state house on 11/26/24. This year’s honorees include 11 members of law enforcement from the Acushnet, Berlin, Oxford, Lakeville, and Boston Police Departments, as well as the Massachusetts State Police and the Massachusetts Port Authority, whose actions demonstrated extraordinary valor in the face of extreme danger.

The ceremony recognizes exceptional acts of courage by law enforcement and commemorates the legacy of Trooper George Hanna, who was fatally shot in the line of duty in 1983 during a routine traffic stop.

The Medal of Honor is the highest award for those who demonstrate extraordinary bravery and courage in the face of extreme risk and certain and imminent danger to life or limb. Valor is awarded to those whose valor in a single incident goes above and beyond the call of duty, and who demonstrate selfless bravery despite the potential for danger to themselves.

Acushnet Police Officer, Kevin Martins, stands at attention beside Mass. Governor Maura Healey during a ceremony on 11/26/24 at the state house, when he received the George L. Hanna Medal of Valor for his actions on 12/29/23 at a standoff at the Bayside in Fairhaven where Officer Martins was shot. Photo courtesy of the Mass. Governor’s office.

Since the award’s inception in 1983, 177 individuals have received the Hanna Award Medal of Honor, the highest commendation for law enforcement officers in the Commonwealth.

“Massachusetts’ most prestigious law enforcement award honors the remarkable courage and dedication demonstrated by our law enforcement officers statewide, who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said Gov. Healey. “Today’s recipients reflect the enduring legacy of Trooper George Hanna, whose life and service continue to inspire us all. Their stories remind us of the immense bravery required in this profession and the sacrifices officers and their families make to keep our communities safe.”

A press release from the Governor’s office summarized the incidents of each officer.

“On December 29, 2023, law enforcement officers from Acushnet, Mattapoisett, and Fairhaven Police Departments faced a grave and rapidly escalating situation outside the Bayside Lounge in Fairhaven. Responding to a mutual aid call, they encountered an armed and agitated individual in the parking lot, posing a significant threat to public safety.

“Demonstrating exceptional teamwork, the officers from all three agencies promptly secured the area to protect civilians. For over 30 minutes, they utilized advanced de-escalation techniques, rotating communication duties to calm the individual. Despite their unwavering commitment to a peaceful resolution, the situation escalated when non-lethal options, including a BolaWrap, Taser, and beanbag rounds, failed to subdue the subject. Tragically, the individual opened fire, injuring Acushnet Officer Kevin Martins, who was struck in the leg.

“In a moment that epitomizes courage and professionalism, Officer Martins continued to assist his team even after sustaining an injury. The officers collectively returned fire, ultimately neutralizing the threat. Their swift actions under fire not only safeguarded innocent lives but ensured the preservation of order in a chaotic and dangerous environment.

“Officer Kevin Martins’ actions are emblematic of selflessness and dedication. Despite being wounded, he demonstrated composure and bravery, embodying the core values of law enforcement. The coordination and resilience displayed by all the officers involved reflect their commitment to public safety, even at great personal risk.

“This incident underscores the challenges faced daily by those who serve and protect. It also highlights the importance of collaboration across agencies in managing complex and life-threatening situations. Officer Martins and his colleagues are true heroes, whose actions deserve our deepest gratitude and respect.”

Acushnet Police Officer, Kevin Martins, receives the award by the daughters of Trooper George L. Hanna, which is named after their father, at a ceremony on 11/26/24 at the state house, for bravery for his actions on 12/29/23 at a standoff at the Bayside in Fairhaven where Officer Martins was shot. L-R: Kimberly, Deborah, Officer Martins. Photo courtesy of the Mass. Governor’s office.

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