Parcell receives Distinguished Career Award

SEELEY LAKE – Missoula County Sheriff's Office Sergeant Robert Parcell received the Montana Sheriffs & Peace Officers Association (MSPOA) Distinguished Career Award Aug. 17. He has been with the Missoula County Sheriff's Office for the past 38 and was nominated for the award by Missoula County Sheriff TJ McDermott.

"There is not a person more deserving of this award," said McDermott. "Bob has served with honor, integrity and dedication throughout his entire career."

Throughout his nearly four decades as a public servant, Parcell received numerous awards.

In 1984, he received the Jimmy Kaaro award for having the highest academic record of his graduating Montana Law Enforcement Academy class, which included receiving a perfect score on the final exam. That was the first time that had ever been accomplished.

In 1992, Parcell received an "Armed Action ' Medal for being involved in a gun battle in the line of duty. He was shot and received a "Purple Heart" medal.

In 1994, Parcell received a commendation from U.S. President Clinton in Washington, D.C.

He has also received other state and county level awards throughout his career.

In addition to responding to emergencies and calls for service, Parcell has served as a deputy coroner and oversees the operations of the Seeley Swan Search and Rescue Unit (SSSR). McDermott wrote, "His leadership continues to bring about countless successful missions and rescues of those in need or lost in the back country of Missoula County."

This is also true of Sgt. Parcell's military service, where in May of 2005 and after 30 years of service, Sgt. Parcell retired honorably as a Colonel in the United States Marine Corps.

"Bob has served with honor, integrity and dedication through his entire career," said Wynn Meehan, Broadwater County Sheriff and MSPOA's incoming president, during the award presentation. "Bob takes on extra duties in order to serve the citizens of Missoula and he does so with work ethic that is worthy of [recognition]. Sergeant Parcell takes his oath of office seriously, conducts every interaction with Montana citizens with integrity, professionalism and honor."

Parcell said he appreciates working for the Missoula County Sheriff's Office and working in the Seeley, Swan and lower Blackfoot valleys.

"I appreciate the honor as an individual but I don't think I deserve it. We work as a team and I will accept this as part of the team," said Parcell. "It is a great outfit to work for. I have for nearly 40 years and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I'm very proud to be a member and I will accept this for the Sheriff's Office."