The Manatee Hundred Club was honored to host our annual Officer of the Year Banquet this year at the beautiful Bradenton Yacht Club, where members of our law enforcement community, supporters, and Hundred Club members gathered together for an evening of recognition, appreciation, and fellowship.
The event was exceptionally well attended and served as a meaningful reminder of the strong relationship between our community and the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting it. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Bradenton Yacht Club for being such gracious hosts and for helping create a wonderful atmosphere for this special evening.
Each year, the Manatee Hundred Club’s Officer of the Year award is determined through a thoughtful and meticulous selection process. Nominations are submitted from within each branch of our local law enforcement community and are carefully reviewed by a panel representing the Manatee Hundred Club. Nominees are evaluated on a variety of criteria, including acts of heroism, leadership, community involvement, professionalism, and dedication to service. This year’s selection process was especially difficult, as we received several truly outstanding nominations representing the very best of local law enforcement.
Ultimately, this year’s recipient was Sergeant Brett Getman of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, who was also named the Sheriff’s Office Deputy of the Year. Sergeant Getman was recognized for his extraordinary bravery and leadership during a life-threatening beach rescue earlier this year.
While conducting beach patrol alongside Deputy Vincent Bowman on August 9, 2025, Sergeant Getman responded to an emergency involving two swimmers caught in a dangerous current far offshore. Understanding the seriousness of the situation, Sergeant Getman immediately coordinated additional emergency resources before entering the water himself to assist one of the struggling individuals. Through calm leadership, decisive action, and remarkable courage, both swimmers were ultimately rescued safely.
Sergeant Getman’s actions exemplify the courage, selflessness, and dedication that define the very best of law enforcement service. His willingness to put himself in harm’s way to save the lives of others is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices our officers make every day in service to our community.
The evening also included several meaningful moments that highlighted the continued impact and evolving mission of the Manatee Hundred Club.
During the banquet, Rick Wells presented 2025–2026 Hundred Club President Marie Lamarre with a plaque in recognition of her service and dedication to both the Club and the law enforcement community over the past year. The presentation served as a heartfelt acknowledgment of her leadership, tireless efforts, and continued commitment to supporting local officers and their families.
Incoming Hundred Club President Bob Nolan also took a moment to recognize Marie for her outstanding leadership and for organizing another successful Officer of the Year Banquet. Bob expressed appreciation not only for Marie’s dedication to the organization, but also for the support provided by her husband throughout her tenure as President. His remarks highlighted the teamwork, sacrifice, and behind-the-scenes support that help make the work of the Hundred Club possible.
Board Member Dennis Cooley also provided an update on the Manatee Hundred Club Scholarship Program at State College of Florida. During his remarks, he proudly announced that the Club awarded a total of $4,500 in scholarships to four students during the 2024–2025 academic year. The scholarship initiative continues to reflect the Club’s commitment to supporting the educational goals of law enforcement officers and their families while investing in the future of our community.
Another especially touching moment came from Robert McBride, who shared an update on the ongoing effort to build a life-sized bronze statue honoring fallen Jeffrey Young. Trooper Young made the ultimate sacrifice on August 18, 1987, after being tragically shot during a traffic stop in Manatee County. The planned memorial, spearheaded by FOP Lodge #70, seeks to preserve his legacy and honor his courage and dedication to public service for generations to come. In support of this important effort, the Manatee Hundred Club proudly presented a $5,000 donation toward the construction of the memorial statue. The presentation served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the importance of ensuring their service is never forgotten.
The evening also included a special recognition award presented to Brian Thiers of the Bradenton Police Department. During his remarks, Assistant Chief Thiers shared heartfelt appreciation for the continued support provided by the Manatee Hundred Club to local law enforcement agencies and officers throughout the community. He also spoke highly of the dedication and professionalism displayed by the officers recognized during the evening, reminding everyone in attendance of the tremendous commitment these men and women make each day in service to others.
The evening was not only an opportunity to honor Sergeant Getman, but also to recognize all of the exceptional officers who were nominated this year. Every nominee represented outstanding service, professionalism, and commitment to the citizens of Manatee County. Choosing a single recipient among such deserving individuals was no easy task.
On behalf of the Manatee Hundred Club, we congratulate Sergeant Brett Getman on this well-deserved recognition and extend our deepest appreciation to all members of our law enforcement community. Your courage, compassion, and dedication continue to inspire and strengthen our community every day.
We also thank all of our members, supporters, and guests who attended this year’s banquet and helped make it another memorable and meaningful evening in support of local law enforcement. Beyond honoring this year’s Officer of the Year, the evening reflected the true spirit of the Manatee Hundred Club — supporting law enforcement not only through recognition, but through scholarships, community partnerships, remembrance, and ongoing service. It was a meaningful night filled with gratitude, reflection, and appreciation for the men and women who continue to protect and serve Manatee County every day.
Below are the finalist for Officer of the Year
Below are some additional pictures from the event.
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