The Hundred Club of Detroit recognized local police officers and firefighters for acts of bravery during its 72nd annual dinner at the Detroit Athletic Club, highlighting the ongoing commitment of first responders to community safety.
Detroit's police officers and firefighters were recognized last week at the Hundred Club of Detroit's 72nd annual dinner. The event, held at the Detroit Athletic Club on September 17, 2026, brought together honorees, their families, and supporters to acknowledge the risks first responders take every day. The City of Detroit's official event calendar and local news outlets covered the ceremony.
The dinner took place just days before the International Day of Peace on September 21, a reminder of the daily work required to keep communities safe. The Hundred Club, started in Detroit by William M. Packer and now led by William M. Packer III, was created to support the families of police officers and firefighters who die in the line of duty. The next generation, William M. Packer IV, is set to continue this work. The club's mission-supporting families of fallen first responders-is recognized by local public safety agencies and referenced in Oakland County's public records.
Honorees from Metro Detroit
This year's dinner honored first responders from several departments. Farmington Hills Police Officers Devin Hunt, Timothy Shingleton, and Antoneta Bucaj were among those recognized. Officer Kordelle Whiteman represented Dearborn. Detroit firefighters Mackenzie McLaurin, Donald Faulkner, and Gabriel Verduzco were also honored. The City of Farmington Hills, which has a dedicated public safety division, works with the Hundred Club and other groups to support officer wellness and community engagement (Farmington Hills Police Department).
Several Detroit Police Department members were recognized, including Officers Miguel O'Reilly and Ronald Lach, and Corporals David Shaw, Eric Johnson, Edward Lawson, and James Kean. The Michigan State Police also had a strong showing, with Specialist Sergeant David Bluhm, Troopers Thomas Pinkerton, Blaine Stormer, Dakota Card, Brandon Dziurgot, Dakota Lehman, Steven Littleton, Dennis McGuckin, Justin Cope, Logan Hofmeister, Logan Kennedy, and Garret Salters, as well as Sergeant David Cardenas, Motor Carrier Officer Edward Ricklefs, and Detective Trooper Specialist Nick Littleton receiving honors. These recognitions highlight the ongoing cooperation between state and local agencies, as described in the State of Michigan's Department of State Police annual reports.
Community Impact and Lifesaving Actions
The Oakland County Sheriff's Office was represented by Deputy Collin Schafer, and the Trenton Police Department by Patrolman Garret Hughes. Retired Lieutenant Danny Phillips was credited with helping save 140 children and staff at Temple Israel. Oakland County's emergency services, which work with local schools and faith-based organizations, have stressed the importance of interagency cooperation in recent public safety meetings.
While the ceremony celebrated those who survived dangerous situations, the Hundred Club's main purpose remains supporting the families of those who do not return home. The organization's ongoing work helps ensure that the sacrifices of first responders are remembered and that their families receive support in times of loss. Farmington Public Schools, which partners with local police and fire departments for safety drills and crisis response, has noted the value of this community support in recent board minutes (Farmington Public Schools board).
How the Hundred Club Supports First Responders
The Hundred Club of Detroit is a nonprofit that provides financial and emotional support to the families of police officers and firefighters who die in the line of duty. Its annual dinner serves as both a fundraiser and a public acknowledgment of the risks first responders face. The club's leadership, rooted in the Packer family, has kept its focus on honoring service and helping those left behind. The City of Detroit and Oakland County both recognize the Hundred Club's contributions in their annual community impact reports.
First responders in Metro Detroit continue to face unpredictable and sometimes dangerous situations, from domestic calls to large-scale emergencies. Events like the Hundred Club's annual dinner give the community a chance to recognize these efforts and strengthen the support network for those who serve. The City of Farmington, through its public safety commission, encourages residents to take part in local recognition events and stay informed about emergency preparedness.
By bringing together honorees from departments across the region, the Hundred Club's event highlights the shared commitment of police and fire personnel to public safety. Recognizing both individual acts of bravery and the broader mission of service, the event makes clear that the community values its first responders and the sacrifices they make.
