Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Police Chief Sterling Owen today named Diane Lewis as the Civilian Employee of the Month for June 2006. Ms. Lewis is the Patrol Division Administrative Assistant and has been with the department since March 2001.

Chief Owen said that Ms. Lewis fields numerous daily requests from patrol officers and citizens effectively and efficiently. Ms. Lewis is aware of numerous departmental resources available to ensure these requests are met with the correct response.

Ms. Lewis has recently volunteered to assist with the newly created Search and Recovery Team. Her administrative experience has been vital in the preparation for the creation and training of the team.

Chief Owen said, "The Search and Recovery Team, which is a new and innovative concept, will soon include training of numerous citizen volunteers. That project is becoming a reality due in large part to Ms. Lewis' diligence and hard work."

"Ms. Lewis is known to "check-in" on holidays and while on vacation just to be sure everything is OK. She is an exemplary employee who contributes to the mission of the Knoxville Police Department on a daily basis," said Chief Owen.

Mayor Haslam said, "Ms. Lewis is commended for what she accomplishes on a daily basis as well as the additional responsibilities that she has voluntarily taken on this year. She is extremely deserving of this special award."

Ms. Lweis will receive a signed certificate from the Mayor and Chief along with a free dinner from Bayou Bay Seafood House.