Williamsport Police Agent Steve Sorage was well aware of the many notable law enforcement personnel who've won the Travelers Protective Association of America Police Officer of the Year Award.
And when he learned at Thursday's annual dinner that he had been chosen as this year's recipient, he conceded he felt humbled.
With his family on hand, Sorage accepted the award during the banquet at Little League Baseball headquarters.
Article Photos
MIKE REUTHER/Sun-Gazette
Williamsport Police Agent Steve Sorage holds the Police Officer of the Year award, given to him by Marie McGee, left, national president of the Travelers Protective Association, on Thursday.
His job, he said, has always been not about him, but about other people. He acknowledged colleagues, county prison personnel and others.
"I love this job," he told the audience, which included active and retired police officers and numerous Lycoming County officials.
Also on hand was Sorage's wife, Christine Waltz, and his daughters, Stephanie and Sarah.
"Steve Sorage is a simple man doing a job that he loves," said Charles Hall, an aide to state Rep. Garth Everett, R-Muncy. "We are here to say, 'great job, Steve Sorage.' "
Everett and state Rep. Rick Mirabito, D-Williamsport, both of whom were unable to attend the dinner, had prepared a citation for Sorage.
Another citation came from state Sen. E. Eugene Yaw, R-Loyalsock Township.
He also received an award from the city police department.
Sorage, for his part, said he's always tried to do the best job he could.
A veteran of the city police department for more than 31 years, he has served as a detective since 1997.
Following the banquet, Sorage accepted congratulations from a multitude of friends, colleagues and acquaintances.
"I'm speechless," he said.
Sorage said he knows many of the past recipients of the award and feels honored to be part of the group.
Hall said it was great to see Sorage's reaction when he learned he'd won the award.
"There's nothing sweeter and finer than seeing that person realize, 'Oh my gosh. That's me,' " he laughed.
