By SERGEANT RON GALAVIZ
Public Information Office, Indiana State Police

A Whitley County trooper, Sergeant Aaron W. Cook, was recognized recently for 20 years of service. Cook was appointed as a trooper on Dec. 4, 1994, as a graduate of the 51st Indiana State Police Recruit Academy.

During his career, Cook has served the Department as a member of the District Criminal Interdiction Team, a Field Training Officer, as a member of the Tactical Intervention Platoon and in 2004 he distinguished himself with a life saving effort and was awarded the Silver Star, the second highest honor that the Indiana State Police can bestow upon a trooper.

Cook currently serves as a Squad Sergeant and is the immediate supervisor to troopers in both Whitley and Huntington Counties.

Two other troopers from the Fort Wayne post were also recognized for career milestones. Sergeant Mark R. Heffelfinger of DeKalb county was recognized for 30 years of service and Lieutenant Anthony C. Casto of Wells county was recognized for 20 years of service.