At Trollinger Law LLC, we deeply appreciate the dedication and hard work of first responders in protecting and strengthening their communities. That’s why we engage with local communities to recognize individuals who truly embody the spirit of a “Hometown Hero.” After a thorough selection process, we are excited to announce the three winners of this year’s Hometown Heroes Awards.
John Edelen
Please join us in honoring Sergeant John Edelen of the Maryland State Police, who has dedicated more than 26 years to serving and protecting his community.
Throughout his distinguished career, Sergeant Edelen has served in patrol, K9, and Internal Affairs. His exceptional leadership and dedication have earned him the honor of Supervisor of the Year five times and Trooper of the Year twice.
Beyond his service in uniform, John is deeply committed to giving back. He is a longtime youth soccer coach and actively supports programs such as Christmas Shop with a Cop, No Hunger November, and toy drives benefiting children in need.
Above all, John is a devoted husband to his wife, Katie, and proud father to Bryce and Ryan.
Please join us in thanking Sergeant John Edelen for his outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others!
Jason Posey
Please join us in honoring Jason Posey, retired Police Lieutenant and United States Marine Corps veteran, who has dedicated his career to serving his country and community.
Jason proudly served four years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps, completing two overseas campaign tours. He went on to serve more than 21 years with the La Plata Police Department before retiring in August 2026.
Throughout his distinguished law enforcement career, Jason served in patrol and held leadership positions as Honor Guard Commander and Administrative Commander. His commitment to helping others extended beyond the badge through his work with Toys for Tots and his efforts to establish the department’s Police Explorer and Cadet youth programs.
Jason continues to make a difference through volunteer service throughout Southern Maryland. He is also a devoted husband to his wife, Amy, and proud father to their sons, Noah and Sam.
Please join us in thanking Jason Posey for his military service, outstanding leadership, and lifelong dedication to his community!
William L. Smith, Jr.
Please join us in honoring Chief William L. Smith, Jr., whose dedication to fire and emergency medical services spans more than four decades of outstanding leadership and community service.
Since 2013, Chief Smith has served as Fire/EMS Coordinator and Public Information Officer for Charles County’s volunteer fire and EMS associations, supporting approximately 1,200 active and retired first responders.
In addition to serving as Department Fire Chief of the West Lanham Hills Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, he is a past President of the Maryland Fire Chiefs Association.
Chief Smith is also passionate about preparing the next generation of first responders, leading the Charles County High School Fire-Rescue Cadet Program and mentoring young people pursuing careers in emergency services.
Throughout his distinguished career, Chief Smith has remained a dedicated advocate for volunteerism, firefighter safety, and the communities he serves.
Please join us in recognizing Chief William L. Smith, Jr. as a Trollinger Law Hometown Hero and thanking him for more than 40 years of extraordinary service and dedication!
