Officers in Morrison standoff honored

Morrison County Sheriff Michel Wetzel, Morrison County Sheriff's Lt. Bruce Motes and State Trooper Kaj Meinhardt were recently honored at the Minnesota Sheriff's Association Convention, for their actions on June 24 in rescuing seven hostages held at gunpoint in the Morrison County boardroom.

Wetzel Motes, and Meinhardt were all awarded the Medal of Valor for placing their lives in immediate jeopardy in order to save the life of another.

In addition to the Medal of Valor, all three officers were also awarded the Medal of Honor at the Minnesota Public Safety Awards Ceremony in Brooklyn Park last month.

"I accept these awards on behalf of my entire staff along with the officers from other departments who responded on that day and acted with bravery and professionalism," Wetzel said in a news release.

From the archives:

No hostages hurt, suspect is killed - 06/25/08

20 shots fired at Wheeler - 06/27/08

A day they won't soon forget - 06/25/08

Tense, terrifying scene described - 06/25/08

Residents stunned by hostage situation - 06/25/08

County administrator Houle wasn't surprised when Wheeler walked in - 06/25/08

Chronology: Wheeler's history of conflict - 06/25/08