Missouri Highway Patrol Presents Steve Wilmesherr Civilian of the Year Award

The Missouri State Highway Patrol honored 32 employees at its annual awards ceremony and The MASTERS banquet April 14 at the Holiday Inn Executive Center in Columbia.

The 2011 Civilian of the Year award was presented to Commercial Vehicle Officer Supervisor I Steve D. Wilmesherr, Troop C, of Washington, for exemplary services.

Wilmesherr has worked for the Missouri State Highway Patrol since March 4, 1994. Since that date, he has supported the patrol’s mission of service and protection through his enforcement activity and by providing presentations in his areas of expertise.

His skill in drug interdiction resulted in him being named Interdictor of the Year by the Drug Interdiction Assistance Program.

Wilmesherr is a working supervisor, regularly working all shifts and changing his own schedule should coverage needs demand it.

The patrol said others know they can depend on Wilmesherr when they have questions related to commercial motor vehicle laws and regulations, as well as the mechanical operation of these vehicles.

Wilmesherr also presented several programs to the public regarding commercial vehicle enforcement inspection issues and traveling safely around commercial vehicles.

The patrol said Wilmersherr’s leadership and technical knowledge is an asset to the state of Missouri.

Family, friends and The MASTERS members gathered at the ceremony to honor the heroes of 2011.

Maj. Dale A. Schmidt, Q/SSB, served as emcee. Troop E’s Color Guard presented the colors while Chief Operator Roger M. Heard, Troop H, played the bagpipes.

Trooper Kevin R. Waters, Troop D, sang the national anthem and patrol Chaplain Pastor William F. Koch, Troop H, gave the invocation and benediction.

Col. Ron Replogle, patrol superintendent, presented the awards.

Douglas Mitchell, president of The MASTERS, presented The MASTERS Public Service Award.