Two members of the Eureka Springs Police Department have been honored at a statewide level.

Cpl. Dylan Gresham and officer Drew Walker were recently named Carroll County Officers of the Year, and then selected regionally as Northwest Arkansas Officers of the Year.

Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin honored the pair, along with law enforcement officers from across the state, at the 2025 Officer of the Year Awards luncheon held Thursday, Dec. 11, in Little Rock.

Gresham and Walker were recognized for their efforts entering a burning house in the early morning hours of March 25, helping two people and a dog escape.

“The men and women we honored today are true heroes, and it is my distinct honor to recognize them for their outstanding service to their communities,” Griffin said at the awards luncheon. “These officers have distinguished themselves in the past year for their excellence and dedication. But this event isn’t just a celebration of their accomplishments, it’s also a celebration of all law enforcement officers and a way for us to say thank you to those who keep us safe each and every day.

“I congratulate all those honored today and the countless others who put their lives on the line so that Arkansans can live in peace and safety.”

‘WITHOUT HESITATION’

The efforts of Gresham and Walker on March 25 came while responding a residential fire at approximately 1 a.m. on Fuller Street.

“Upon arrival, the officers were immediately informed that there were occupants trapped inside the residence, and the front entrance was completely engulfed in flames,” said a release issued by ESPD after the incident. “In the face of extreme danger, Officers Gresham and Walker displayed incredible courage and determination. Without hesitation, they made their way into the house through a window, despite the hazardous conditions. Their quick actions allowed them to successfully remove two individuals and a dog from the residence, ensuring their safety.”

ESPD Police Chief Billy Floyd called the officers’ actions “courageous.”

“We are incredibly proud of Officers Gresham and Walker for their bravery during this dangerous incident,” the chief said in the release from the department. “Their quick thinking and courageous actions helped save lives, and we are thankful for their service.”

The Eureka Springs Fire Department responded to the scene and extinguished the fire.

“Both officers acted swiftly and selflessly, prioritizing the lives of the trapped occupants above their own safety,” the release read. “Their heroic efforts are a testament to their commitment to serving and protecting the Eureka Springs community, even in the most perilous situations.

“The Eureka Springs Police Department is grateful to these officers for their exemplary service, and we extend our deepest appreciation to them for their unwavering dedication to protecting the lives of our citizens.”

CHIEF’S ENDORSEMENT

Floyd said he wrote a recommendation letter to Griffin in support of Gresham and Walker being recognized for their efforts during the March fire.

“So, I was not surprised they received it,” Floyd said Monday, Dec. 15, adding the process also involved “media clippings” being submitted reporting on the rescue. “Ultimately, the recommendation letter is what was read at the presentation.”

The chief said he had been notified “early on” that Gresham and Walker were going to be named Carroll County Officers of the Year.

“Then, after the Attorney General looked at the presentation, they won the Regional Officer of the Year and were eligible for the whole state award at that point.”

Floyd said he was happy the two officers were recognized for their actions, something he said he feels any member of his department would have also done in that moment.

“I’m really proud of them, and I’m proud of all my officers,” the chief said. “I couldn’t point to any officer in my department who wouldn’t have done the same thing.

“It’s just really fortunate that they guys actually got to showcase their bravery and their diligence.”

Gresham and Walker were “very humble,” about the recognition, Floyd said.

“Both of them appreciated it, but they were, when you look around and you’re surrounded by people that would do the same thing as you would there’s not really a whole lot of outward pride.

“… They were humble, but grateful as well. Obviously they are both happy and proud to be able to represent the department this way. Very gracious and humble.”