Lilburn Police Chief Bruce Hedley
For the first time in its history, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Atlanta, a Hindu temple in Lilburn, gave the Golden Diya Award last month.
Lilburn Police Chief Bruce Hedley received the award, which in Indian culture represents the lamp with an eternal flame that brightens the darkest day and represents hope and a guiding light, according to Lilburn city officials.
The award recipient has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and service to the community and encourages harmony among individuals.
Hedley took over first as interim chief in 2011 after he started with the department in 2008. He previously retired from the Atlanta Police Department after 20 years of service.
Hedley oversees a department with 31 sworn officers and five civilian employees.