State Sen. Jake Oliveira and state Rep. Brian Ashe recognize Officers Cameron Prosperi and Jack Alberici.
Reminder Publishing photo by Peter Tuohy
WILBRAHAM — On Nov. 22, state Sen. Jake Oliveira and state Rep. Brian Ashe met at the Wilbraham Police Department to recognize Officer Cameron Prosperi and Officer Jack Alberici.
Alberici and Prosperi responded to a domestic violence call on Jan. 20, 2024, where a man had barricaded himself in his home with two others. Prosperi was struck in an exchange of gunfire and sustained serious injuries before undergoing emergency surgery.
Prosperi was awarded the Medal of Honor, the state’s highest distinction in law enforcement for “extraordinary bravery and courage in the face of extreme risk and certain and imminent danger to life or limb.” Alberici was awarded the Medal of Valor for “valor, courage and bravery while disregarding the potential for danger or great risk to him or herself.”
Alberici and Prosperi were originally recognized by Gov. Maura Healey at the George L. Hanna Awards for Bravery on Oct. 15, but Oliveira and Ashe were unable to attend.
“We wanted to make sure we took the time to come out here and thank both you guys for an unbelievable situation that I can’t imagine being thrusted into,” Ashe said. “I’m so glad both you guys are still here.”
“We usually give these citations and I’m very proud we’re giving them, but it seems like it’s not enough,” Ashe added. “What you did was so heroic and so above and beyond, so I’m honored to present the citation.”
Ashe awarded Alberici the Medal of Valor on behalf of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
“I can’t thank you guys enough, not only for this instance, but what you do day in and day out,” Ashe said. “We know how difficult this job can be.”
Oliveira thanked the Wilbraham Police Department as well and said there is a “common misconception” of suburban communities not having many issues of crime, dangerousness or mental health.
“We understand that for each person who puts on a uniform, you don’t know what your day is gonna bring,” Oliveira said. “You don’t know what situation you’re walking into. We’re just so thankful for you that you step up, put on that uniform and keep us safe.”
“To both Jack and Cameron, thank you for everything you’ve done. Thank you for putting on that uniform each and every day,” Oliveira added. “Even after sustaining an injury, putting that uniform back on again and going back and doing it, I’m just grateful on behalf of the Massachusetts Senate that we have people like you who are willing to step up to the plate.”
Oliveira recognized both officers and extended congratulations on behalf of the Massachusetts Senate with the signed citations from the Massachusetts Senate President Karen Spilka.
