Public Safety

Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office awards Purple Heart to late Corporal Ray Hamilton

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has posthumously awarded the Purple Heart to fallen OCSO Deputy Corporal Ray C. Hamilton. The Purple Heart is the oldest formal award bestowed by the United States Military and Law Enforcement agencies and is widely recognized as a symbol of bravery, courage, and honor. The award is presented to any […]

Jared Williams

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has posthumously awarded the Purple Heart to fallen OCSO Deputy Corporal Ray C. Hamilton.

During a ceremony held earlier this week, Sheriff Eric Aden presented the award to Corporal Hamilton’s widow, Renee, in recognition of his selfless sacrifice while serving on the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team.

The Purple Heart is the oldest formal award bestowed by the United States Military and Law Enforcement agencies and is widely recognized as a symbol of bravery, courage, and honor. The award is presented to any sworn member of the agency who sustains serious or permanent injury while engaged in enforcement action.

During the presentation of the award, a statement was read describing the Purple Heart as a symbol of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and their families in service to their communities.

“This award is distinct in the fact that none of us wish to earn or issue one but we all know or should know that it is possible, if not likely. Law enforcement officers and their families sacrifice much in the service of their communities and it is therefore fitting and proper that their sacrifice be honored and remembered.”

Renee Hamilton (left) hugging Sheriff Eric Aden (right) after receiving the Purple Heart award on behalf of her late husband, Corporal Ray Hamilton – OCSO

Corporal Hamilton lost his life on Saturday, December 24 when a domestic violence suspect opened fire on responding deputies from inside his residence.

In recognition of his honorable service to the community, he was posthumously awarded the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Purple Heart.

The memory of Corporal Hamilton’s service and sacrifice will live on in the hearts and traditions of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. The award, which is purple and heart-shaped, is symbolic of the recipient’s heart for service to others and will forever serve as a reminder of the bravery and courage displayed by Deputy Corporal Hamilton in the line of duty.

State Attorney’s Office to consider death penalty for Williams in shooting of Corporal Hamilton

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Police Blotter

Okaloosa Deputies investigating gunshots on Beach Drive in Destin, no injuries reported

Police Blotter

Man killed, one injured in Fort Walton Beach shooting

Police Blotter

Car crash leads to shooting investigation on Racetrack Road in Fort Walton Beach

Public Safety

Okaloosa deputies issue 454 underage drinking citations so far during spring break

Laura L Melendez commented on Fort Walton Beach approves next steps for Liza Jackson Boat Launch expansion plans

“I wish that they would also bring in fill dirt to raise the level of the entire park. The ground is always soggy and mushy. A lot of the soil...”

Respond

Ms. Rich commented on Okaloosa Tourism Director outlines potential impacts of proposed tourism tax bill

“Although HB 1221 passed the House on April 25, the Senate has Indefinitely Postponed it and withdrawn it from consideration as of May 3, 2025. The bill to watch is...”

Ron commented on Okaloosa approves purchase of old Red Lobster building in Fort Walton Beach

“3437 AUBURN Rd., CRESTVIEW, FL 32539”

Elizabeth Anne Gosnell commented on The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island donates over $10,500 to Rock by the Sea’s charitable mission

“Thank you coming out to Al's this morning! Rock by the Sea is ecstatic to be able to return to this beautiful coast and amazing venues next year! It's going...”

Amber commented on Destin’s Joe’s Bayou project timeline unveiled, construction expected to start September

“This would be nice to be dog friendly. As we have nowhere that is dog friendly. We have two parks and not one of them are dog friendly even on...”

David commented on Fitness, food and family: LiveOak Fiber supports five community events across Okaloosa County in May

“Do we need a Voucher to go to the tailfins brunch in the morning? Where do we get a voucher? We are live oak customers”

Karyn Kuhl commented on Pounders Hawaiian Grill eyes expansion into Fort Walton Beach with third location

“We're glad you finally opened in Fort Walton Beach! Welcome! Now you need a bigger parking lot!”

RedDiver commented on Sandos Beachside brings coffee, sandwiches with chips on top, and cocktails to Destin

“Including the menu with the article - most excellent!”

Dwayne commented on Okaloosa Tourism Director outlines potential impacts of proposed tourism tax bill

“Yeah this is a great idea for one it will help the home owners along with keeping a great ship afloat”

Helen Rigdon commented on Eight women to be honored in Okaloosa County Hall of Fame

“Sure glad to see Shawna and Judge Lacey As an Inductee. Watched them from an early age as they have become outstanding young women. They have contributed tremendously To Okaloosa...”