Piedmont, AL – On Tuesday, November 15, 2025, during the Piedmont City Council meeting a special section was taken by Investigator Josh Parker of the Piedmont Police Department. Inv. Parker addressed the city council and the attendees of the meeting, which included a large group of other Piedmont police officers.
Piedmont Police Chief, Nathan Johnson, was unaware of the surprise that was about to be awarded to him and seemed slightly confused with Inv. Parker’s address. Investigator Parker began his speech by saying “When we hear of the Hall of Fame you think of the greats in a sport or music. The person who has reached and exceeded a pinnacle in their career and forever a fan favorite who gets a roar from any crowd. This profession is one that the greats are never shown in a public light. The hard work and sacrifice are not known to the public.” He went to explain that since Chief Johnson was put in place as Chief, he immediately started working towards bettering the department. Chief Johnson began applying for grants and assistance from the government and military. Soon the department was able to secure new vehicles and necessary equipment to bring the Piedmont Police Department closer to current policing standards.
Inv. Parker also highlighted how much Chief Johnson works to maintain a strong community partnership. He went on to state, “Chief always keeps his personal cell phone on and always answers it when he is available. This may be for someone that needs help setting up a new phone, or a complaint about dogs roaming around. Whatever the call he will work with the community to find a positive outcome.”
Investigator Parker let the city council know that it was him and a group of other officers at the agency that nominated Chief Johnson for the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame J. Edgar Hoover Award. The award is presented to law enforcement officers who have made significant contributions to the field of criminal justice. This award recognizes officers who have successfully completed additional training, continually seek education and advancement, and have demonstrated a lifetime of dedication to their profession. The award is a testament to the officers’ commitment to excellence and their impact on the community. Inv. Parker also said he was surprised at how quickly the National Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame were able to come to a decision to give the award to Chief Johnson, “He deserves it”, stated Inv. Parker.
Chief Johnson was called up to the podium and presented with a plaque and a medal representing the J Edgar Hoover Award. He thanked everyone and admitted his complete surprise to the nomination and award. The Chief then read the plaque to the council and audience, “The John Edgar Hoover Memorial Gold Medal for Distinguished Public Service Award is hereby presented to Nathan C. Johnson in recognition of and outstanding act of valor or service that exemplifies the best tradition of character, honor and integrity. This gold Medal is issued in memory of the founder of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, John Edgar Hoover, who after forty eight years dedicated his life to his country and to law enforcement. This medal, therefore, is given only given to individuals who are dedicated to freedom and service to mankind.”
After the presentation was complete, Inv. Parker gave the following closing statement, “To Pam, Sara, Emma, and Ryan I want to say I am sorry we take up so much of your husband and daddy’s time, but thank you for letting us have him as our leader. He is a hero for this community. Chief Nathan Johnson, I am proud you are our Chief, I am proud you are my friend, and even though you are now officially a Hall of Famer, I know that you are not done by a long shot!! We love you man!”
We spoke to the Chief after the ceremony. Chief Johnson was very humble and proud to have been chosen by his officers to be nominated. He went on to say, “Tonight at the Piedmont City Council Meeting I was honored to receive the John Edger Hoover Gold Medal for Distinguished Public Service Award and be recognized by the American Police Officers Hall of Fame. This is an extraordinary honor, and one I will carry with sincere gratitude.
What makes this award especially meaningful to me is that it came from the people I work alongside every single day. My officers took it upon themselves to nominate me, something I did not know was happening. Investigator Josh Parker addressed the Council and shared heartfelt, humbling words before surprising me with the presentation of the award. His words, and the support behind them, meant more than I can fully express.
I am incredibly thankful for my entire department—our officers, dispatchers, and Code Enforcement Officer who serve this community with dedication and pride. They are the reason this honor means so much. To be recognized by my team is the greatest achievement a Chief could ask for.
I would also like to thank our new Mayor and City Council for their support during this presentation and for their commitment to this City.
Receiving this award is an honor. Receiving it from my staff is a privilege I will never forget.”
