ALEA Announces Trooper of the Year Awards, Presented by the Alabama State Trooper Association

MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is proud to announce that Senior Troopers Jacob Manning and Kenny Wade of ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division in Baldwin County have been named the recipients of the prestigious Alabama State Troopers Association (ASTA) Trooper of the Year Award for 2024. This year, the award is being presented to these two extraordinary officers in recognition of their heroic actions during a daring rescue operation that took place in Perdido Bay in October 2024.
In a display of remarkable bravery, Sr. Troopers Manning and Wade swiftly responded to a distress call involving two vessels, which had both capsized, leaving four individuals desperately stranded in the water. Despite challenging weather conditions and low visibility, the duo quickly located the victims and safely extracted them from the water, which ultimately resulted in four lives being saved. Their ability to act under pressure, locate the individuals in a challenging environment, and conduct a safe rescue demonstrates their exceptional skill, courage, and professionalism in the face of danger.
“Troopers Manning and Wade’s heroic actions exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Their quick thinking, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to public safety saved lives and serve as an inspiration to us all.”
In addition, Sr. Trooper Brent Pickle, who is assigned to ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division, has been named Runner-Up for Trooper of the Year, in recognition of his outstanding service and contributions to public safety in Jefferson County and the State of Alabama. Trooper Pickle, along with his K-9 partner, Pici, were responsible for numerous successful operations, including the removal of significant amounts of illegal narcotics and firearms from Alabama’s roadways. Unfortunately, K-9 Pici retired last year due to medical issues, but the team’s legacy of diligent service continues to have a lasting impact.
“Trooper Pickle and K-9 Pici’s partnership and achievements have undoubtedly made Alabama’s communities safer,” added Secretary Taylor. “Though K-9 Pici has retired, the work they accomplished together will never be forgotten.”
ALEA congratulates Senior Troopers Jacob Manning, Kenny Wade, and Brent Pickle for their exceptional service and commitment to protecting the people of Alabama. The ASTA Trooper of the Year Award is one of the highest honors, and this year’s recipients truly embody the values of courage, professionalism, and service above self.