The medal is awarded for outstanding service.

“I’ve worked with countless wonderful and committed people over the years and have had the opportunity to see so many diverse aspects of life,” the Local Area Commander said.

Superintendent Fehon’s career includes a criminal investigation background, along with senior management positions in internal investigative units, a National Crime Authority extended secondment and leading local area commands for more than a decade.

The National Crime Authority investigations spanned Australia and included testing investigations on foreign soil.

Superintendent Fehon, who has drawn on the experience of mentors over the years, praised officers’ commitment in the knowledge the community is much safer through their efforts.

“Of course, in policing we see some very tragic situations, including at times the tragic loss of our own, but that is when some of the great strengths of support are offered which gives you a very deep and inner feeling of loyalty towards making things right in the community,” he said.

“I think we have a strong resilience to see through the bad to ensure the good prevails.

“I truly am grateful for those people in the community who offer their support back to us which is the only reward I feel is somewhat justified.

“To be given something like the Australian Police Medal, it just raises it to another level.”

Annual quotas restrict the number of medals awarded.

Superintendent Fehon said family was extremely important and he was humbled in the pride his family felt when his achievements were acknowledged.

He names the complexity of international investigations, with great challenges and personal satisfaction, as among career highlights.

Superintendent Fehon cites one of his greatest achievements as leading the Forward Command Operations in the successful manhunt for Australia’s most wanted fugitive Malcolm Naden.

“To build a team and manage a team in that rugged and remote environment was most challenging but the capability and adaptability of our officers was of the highest standard,” he said.

Superintendent Fehon said he was extremely proud of the police and other agencies involved.

“On reflection, it was a truly great organisational success by the NSW Police Force and our partners who were so willing to assist us,” he said.

Superintendent Fehon, reflecting on his policing career, spoke about what he called the terribly sad and inconclusive disappearance of William Tyrrell.

He said: “We can only feel for family members during these times and offer support which is only a small token in an attempt to ease the pain.”