At approximately 1600 hrs. on October 4, 2012 I had occasion to be physically present in the FCSO Communications Center at the time the Center was handling the telephone and radio traffic in reference to the events captioned in OCA 201209552, shots fired in Walkertown vicinity.

I could immediately sense that something very serious was going on, so I said nothing and positioned myself behind the console being worked by Ashley Conrad, out of her line of sight.

What I witnessed was one of the most professional displays of grace under fire that I have ever seen. Ms. Conrad was apparently talking to the caller in reference to the shooting that had just occurred. I could not hear what was going on on the other end of the line, only Ms. Conrad’s cool and calming voice as she dealt with an apparently frantic caller and expertly obtained critical information on the alleged shooters physical description, clothing, last known direction of travel, weapons involved, etc.; all the while assuring the caller that she was doing just fine in answering questions and providing information.

While it is not possible to convey the full extent, context or gravity of Ms. Conrad’s performance in this instance in this memo, a review of the telephone recording of the event will clearly illustrate why I am writing to you on this subject.

Based on what I was able to observe in the Communications Center, it is my honor to be able to step forward and very strongly recommend that Ms. Ashley Conrad be considered for special recognition from the agency for her actions on the afternoon of October 4th, 2012.