St. Louis, MO  (KTRS) An area police officer is being recognized for her dedication with the DARE program.

Ellisville Police Sergeant Nancy Walker  was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Missouri DARE Officer Conference on Thursday.

In 1989, Sgt. Walker served in the very first Missouri DARE training class “DARE Officer Training Class #1.” She has inspired thousands of youth during her 28 years of teaching DARE in Ellisville schools.

Chief Steven Lewis stated that he has known Sgt. Walker for much of her time as a DARE instructor. Her recognition is well deserved because of her first-hand commitment to the community and the relationships with the children and youth she instructs.

Sergeant Walker has been on the Ellisville police department for 36 years and is a credit to the police community, the Ellisville Police Department, and the City of Ellisville.

Written By: Jarina Ball