The Booster Award is presented for outstanding contributions to the Palmer Township community. It is made to the person who has exhibited outstanding service to others thus distinguishing Palmer Township through their contribution to their fellow man, business community or political environment.
A long time Police Officer of Palmer Township James R. Van Horn, Sr. officially retired from serving the people of Palmer in 1999 after almost 35 years of service to the community. He was hired as a part-time officer in May of 1964, promoted to full-time in January of 1966, then to Sergeant in October of 1976 and finally to Captain in March of 1990. Capt. Van Horn served as a K-9 Officer for 20 years, from 1973-1993. During this time “Jim” had 3 different K-9 dogs. He became a popular figure to the students at Tracy Elementary School where he did traffic duty on a regular basis. He and his dog became a favorite attraction at the Tracy School and upon his retirement were honored at an assembly with a plaque as well as other gifts.
He attended many Law Enforcement and Management Workshops such
as K-9 Training, Hostage Negotiations and Administering Police Services in Small Communities.
A tribute to Capt. Van Horn from Chief Fretz was as follows: “I am sure it would take volumes to try to explain the dedication and work of this gentleman to explain what he has done for this Township over the years.”
His service to Palmer Township did not end upon his retirement from the Police Department. He then spent 9 years in the summer as Supervisor of Pool Maintenance at the Palmer Township Community Pool.
Palmer Township’s native son, James R. Van Horn and his wife “Kitty” chose to make Palmer their home and raise their 4 children. The residents of Palmer are truly indebted to him for the many years he has spent making it the place to “live, work and play”.
He has set a fine example and we are proud to award the Booster Award to “Jim” Van Horn.
Pictured from left to right are: Debbi Young, Awards Committee Chair, Jim Van Horn and President Marsha Abraham