Fleener was nominated for the statewide honor by Marvin Carr, commander of American Legion Post 130 in Fort Dodge. The American Legion of Iowa’s National Affairs Committee reviewed nominations from across Iowa and ultimately chose Fleener.

“I am honored and humbled to have been nominated, let alone selected for this recognition,” Fleener said. “In my three short years as sheriff, our department has come a long way with so many improvements that all equal serving the citizens of Webster County the best way we know how. I would not be in this position to receive this recognition if it was not for the great staff we have at the Webster County Sheriff’s Office.”

American Legion posts look for law enforcement officers who have gone above and beyond for their communities, Carr said.

“We want to show the American people that law enforcement does great stuff,” Carr said. “This is how we want to give back and to recognize these men and women.”

Fleener’s nomination will now be forwarded for consideration by the American Legion National Headquarters for the National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award.