Special recognition is given to retiring MSHP lieutenant

Sikeston Standard Democrat

SIKESTON -- A special award was given at Thursday night's awards banquet.

Lt. James E. McNiell of the Missouri State Highway Patrol was honored for his 33 years of service -- 19 in Troop E -- by Capt. George Ridens. McNiell plans to retire in May.

The lieutenant's career began as a weight inspector and he climbed the ranks as a Trooper, corporal, sergeant, zone commander, and finally lieutenant in 1992, said Ridens.

In 1995, McNiell was named the Law Enforcement Man of the Year by the Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce. Also in 2006, he won the Missouri Association of State Troopers Emergency Relief Society's Public Service Award. Last year, he won the John Michael Letz Award "recognizing an individual whose unselfish efforts and contributions are directly responsible for the success of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics," said Ridens.