The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) on April 30 announced Chief Aaron Edwards and Sergeant Luis Navarro of the New York City Police Department as the Officers of the Month for March 2026. Chief Edwards and Sergeant Navarro are being recognized for their actions in a suspected improvised explosive device (IED) incident in New York City.

In early March, NYPD officers responded to reports that two individuals had thrown an explosive device into a public area near Gracie Mansion in New York City. When Chief Edwards and Sergeant Navarro arrived on the scene, they immediately moved toward the area, while additional units began securing the surrounding area.

As the situation developed, Chief Edwards located the suspects moments before they were able to deploy another IED and tackled one of the individuals. At the same time, Sergeant Luis Navarro ran toward another lit explosive device to address the immediate threat and protect individuals in the vicinity.

“Chief Edwards and Sergeant Navarro responded as the situation unfolded, prioritizing the safety of others. In critical incidents like this, officers are required to make immediate decisions with public safety at stake,” NLEOMF CEO Bill Alexander said. “Their actions reflect the role officers serve in responding to unpredictable threats on a daily basis.”

The Officer of the Month Award Program is sponsored by the Police Unity Tour and recognizes federal, state and local officers who distinguish themselves through exemplary law enforcement service and devotion to duty.

—www.NLEOMF.org—