2008 RANGER OF THE YEAR

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) recently awarded Corporal Mike Binion, of the Region V-Albany Law Enforcement Office, as the 2008 State Ranger of the Year.


Not only has Corporal Binion been awarded Ranger of the Year, he has also been awarded the Rocky Wainright Waterfowl Award for 2008. The sportsmen of Georgia are very fortunate to have officers who are as dedicated and professional as Cpl. Binion serving them every day, says WRD Chief of Law Enforcement, Colonel Terry West.

Corporal Binion started in law enforcement with the Thomasville Police Department and served them for nine years as both a patrolman and K-9 officer. In 1998, he began his career with DNR Law Enforcement and joined the Departments K-9 Unit in 2000. During his time with DNR, Cpl. Binion has been nominated and honored with numerous awards including 2007 Region V Investigative Ranger of the Year and 2008 Southwest Georgia Sportsman Club Officer of the Year to name a few.

Corporal Binion prides himself on promoting teamwork not only within the department but with other departments as well. He has organized numerous special details with Florida Fish and Wildlife, US Forest Service Agents, and his fellow officers. As the Region V K-9 Officer, Cpl. Binion regularly assists local law enforcement in tracking and apprehending burglars, and other fleeing criminals. He has also assisted the local school system in providing security and searching for guns and weapons on school grounds.

This past year, Cpl. Binion presented 20 educational programs to local churches, schools and civic groups. As a POST instructor, he also teaches Man Tracking, Emergency Vessel Operation, and other courses during the Basis Ranger Academy.



The work ethic and attitude that Cpl. Binion possesses is an inspiration to other officers and the public, says Sgt. Rick Sellars, Cpl. Binion's supervisor. When difficult situations arise, Cpl. Binion can be counted on to organize and lead the way to resolve any these issues.



The State Ranger of the Year Award serves to honor a WRD, Conservation Ranger whose efforts in conservation law enforcement have been exceptional over the past year. The ranger of the year is also recognized by the Shikar-Safari Club International.

For more information on this and other awards contact the Wildlife Resources Division at 770-9198-6408.