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What Others Say About Ozzie
"Sgt. Knezovich was a member of Spokane County S.W.A.T. when I came on the team, and he was the team leader until he left as a member in good standing; due to his promotion to Sergeant in June of 2005…I have participated in countless raids, search warrants, and callouts. These operations have involved search warrants for Property Crimes, Narcotics Traffickers, Fugitives, Active Shooters, and Armed Career Criminals with guns… To date, I have never been involved in an operation where a tactical operator has been injured… Sgt. Knezovich is one of the persons involved in training our team that made these positive results possible…Sgt. Knezovich was instrumental in the development of training that continues to evolve in order to stay abreast of new and constant changing threats that face our community. Terrorist threats and Active Shooter scenarios, in schools or other public venues, are just a couple of training areas addressed during Sgt. Knezovich's tenure. Both of these scenarios are complex and fluid, with staggering tactical considerations needed for a successful outcome. Sgt. Knezovich has displayed an extraordinary amount of leadership, tenacity, and professionalism in assisting with the development of tactical plans needed to address these issues… In the tactical arena, the decisions made and actions taken as a result of those decisions literally have life and death consequences. Sgt. Knezovich has showed no hesitation in his willingness to make decisions, or accept the consequences for those decisions. It is a rare leader who has the humility to accept advice or criticism and the strength to make unpopular decisions. Sgt Knezovich possesses both of these characteristics, as well as a genuine passion for the welfare of those he works with and the department as a whole. Sgt. Knezovich's sound leadership is reflected in the successes of our team and the respect we are afforded by other tactical teams during joint operations, or training with other agencies… I can say that I have the utmost confidence in the tactical and leadership abilities of Sgt. Knezovich. I have been involved in numerous operations where he has demonstrated his abilities, under the worst of circumstances. Our successes, I believe, are direct proof of those abilities… I have gone into harms way on numerous occasions with Sgt. Knezovich, and would do so again without hesitation. I feel confident in saying that he would say the same for me."
Deputy Erick Nelson, Spokane County Sheriff's Office; February 16th 2006
"While his professional resume speaks exceedingly well for him, I wish to amplify-the broad scope of his professional experience. He brings to the security profession an extremely strong leadership and work ethic, a values-based style, and an arsenal of tactical skills unmatched by many in the policing profession. All of these have been forged through a sterling period of military service to the nation. Following his military service, Ozzie has accumulated an equally impressive set of training and operational credentials with police service in four separate locations. He has consistently sought leadership roles in operations as well as the Sheriffs Association... Impressive in appearance, dynamic in action, and personable in all environments, Sergeant Ozzie Knezovich is by an order of magnitude the finest candidate for the position of Spokane County Sheriff that I know. His experience, knowledge and energy will continue to bring accolades to the department and his chosen profession."
Gratton O'Neal Sealock II Brigadier General (Ret); January 15, 2006
"From 1996 through 1999 I was assigned the additional duty as the SWAT TEAM field supervisor. My duties included the review and implementation of training for the TEAM… As a result of the numerous nationwide shootings at schools and specifically the Columbine tragedy in April of 1999 we prepared for that eventuality in our community… Then Deputy, now Sergeant Knezovich presented a plan he had developed for response to active shooter situations such as Columbine. This plan was based on prior SWAT training he had received. I reviewed the plan with the SWAT TEAM, and incorporated it into our training… Through a team effort this plan became the basis for the Spokane County Sheriff's Office active shooter and rapid response policy… It was this type of commitment to the SWAT team and the community that made Sergeant Knezovich such an asset to the Spokane County SWAT Team."
Sergeant Pete Bunch, DTP1 Patrol, Spokane County Sheriff's Office; January 9, 2006
"I am writing this letter in support of Mr. Ozzie Knezovich and his candidacy for … Sheriff of Spokane County Washington … He is a dedicated and focused law enforcement professional whose passion is the betterment and professionalism of the Spokane Sheriff's Office … Ozzie has been instrumental in establishing a training partnership, between the Spokane Sheriff's Office and the Community Colleges of Spokane's Institute for Extended Learning. The training partnership will establish ongoing support of law enforcement education and training for the Spokane region … Ozzie is a soft spoken, influential, action-oriented leader. His life experiences in the military and law enforcement have developed ability for rapid assessment, clear decision making and focused determination to any challenge addressed … Ozzie has addressed his training assignment with a view for organizational development within the Spokane Sheriff's Office. He has been instrumental in the development of the training programs that will propel the Spokane Sheriff's Office to a premier law enforcement agency … I speak from the perspective of retired law enforcement officer with twenty years service and a community college administrator for the last fifteen years when I say. Ozzie is a man of character, intelligence, honesty, integrity, high moral character and a keen sense of fairness to all. He is my only recommendation for the office of Sheriff of Spokane County."
W. Kelly Chun, February 15, 2006
"I had the privilege of working with Sergeant Ozzie Knezovich, of the Spokane County Sheriff's Office, on a training project for his organization for several months. Sergeant Knezovich performed numerous tasks very professionally and successfully during my contact with him … Sergeant Knezovich demonstrated solid leadership and is well-rounded and experienced in a multitude of assignments. His responsibilities included dealing with a large number of fellow employees, supervisors, citizens and member other organizations. Additionally, his fields of expertise are varied, which causes him to routinely interact with business owners and community members. This has provided him with significant experience in public speaking … He is also able to think independently and make sound decisions, when necessary, and was always eager to take on new challenges and responsibilities … In short, it is my opinion that Sergeant Knezovich will be a great asset in capacity … If I can be of any further assistance, please contact me at 937-901-4477."
Lieutenant Robert Chabali, Commander, Third District/Special Weapons and Tactics Dayton Police Department, October 23, 2005
"It was with great pleasure when I received the news that Ozzie Knezovich was considering running for the position of Sheriff in Spokane County … I retired from law enforcement after 27 years to serve in an elected position as a City Council representative...I had the responsibility of supervising Ozzie from the start of his law enforcement career. Ozzie accepted additional and progressive responsibilities during the four years he spent with the Rock Springs Police Department. One of the qualities that I always admired in Ozzie was his consistency in performance, no matter what the task was. From good basic police work to employee/management issues, Ozzie attacked his missions with a passion that I found hard to duplicate in his fellow officers. He had the respect of the rank and file officers and the confidence of the administration… I certainly believe that Ozzie Knezovich would be a successful interim Sheriff; the Commissioners are indeed fortunate that a candidate of Ozzie's qualities has come forward and offered to serve."
Neil Kourbelas, Chief of Police (Ret), City of Rock Springs Police Department, Rock Springs, Wyoming 10/30/2005
"I worked with Ozzie Knezovich from academy graduation to his appointment as a School Resource Officer. His work ethic, integrity, fitness, and decision-making skills are outstanding… While working for the Rock Springs Police Department, he took the time to become involved in community activities, which is so necessary for a sound relationship with the population at large… As his shift supervisor, I began to give him the additional responsibility as an Officer-In-Charge during my absences. During this time, he supervised a patrol shift of six officers. By the time he was appointed School Resource Officer, he was the only officer I would use as an O.I.C. He was placed in this position above officers with much more experience. His leadership abilities, decision-making abilities and his ability to follow department policy placed him far above the others… Even when he was appointed School Resource Officer, his skills stood out in organizing the program and working with school administration and staffs at one Senior High and two Junior High Schools…In summary, he is honest and straight forward in his approach to family and life. He carries out his obligations with vigor and resolve. He handles the role of leader and manager with equal aplomb and brings to the table a huge amount of common sense."
Chief Mike Lowell, Rock Springs Police Department, Rock Springs, Wyoming; October 31, 2005
"Ozzie proved himself as an excellent patrol officer. Although he grew up in this area and most of his family lived here, his police duties always came first. He did not allow his personal feelings or friendships interfere with his dedication to his profession. This dedication often placed him at the top of the selection list for advanced training and other diverse assignments… I feel that his greatest accomplishment with our agency was when we became involved in a pilot School Resource Officer Program at the request of our local school district. Ozzie was the initial officer to work towards the institution of this program within the schools. …While working as the School Resource Officer, he worked very closely with myself and the upper command staff of our agency. We found him to be a very competent officer and very conscientious about whatever duties he was assigned. The school district was also very happy with his performance and the positive results of his presence in the school. His duties did not involve law enforcement alone. He was also involved in training, counseling, and meeting with parents, … students and school personnel. He made his presence in the schools one of a positive nature while maintaining a position of authority with the students. … I feel that Ozzie Knezovich is capable of filling any position he takes on. He prides himself in being the best he can be in anything he sets his mind to…"
Matthew J. Bider, Chief of Police (Ret), Rock Springs Police Department, Rock Springs, Wyoming; January 9,1996.
"Any police department would be fortunate to have an officer of this caliber under their employ. Officer Knezovich has an excellent variety of skills, training, and experience. … Most impressive are his defensive tactics skills and overall tactical knowledge. His overall demeanor and bearing are that of a professional police officer. Citizens, peers, and supervisors respect him. I view Officer Knezovich as a very balanced individual, having maturity beyond his years… Officer Knezovich is a part of the answer, not part of the problem. Wherever he works, the organization will be better for it."
Lt. Jim Pryde, Patrol Watch Commander, City of Olympia Police Department, Olympia, Washington; January 19, 1996
"Specialist Knezovich's tenacious dedication in pursuit of organizational streamlining procedures, personnel management, and unyielding candor has made him a credit to the 1-503 Infantry Regiment Medical Platoon…. During his tenure under my command specialist Knezovich successfully managed a $50,000 medical supply account, reorganized and streamlined medical logistical operations, and developed a medical rapid deployment system enabling the Battalion Aid Station and medical assets to provide battalion medical coverage during the politically sensitive Demilitarized Zone Mission (DMZ) 9 Oct 88 - 12 Dec 88."
Philip N. Wasylina 2LT, MS Medical Platoon Leader, April 21, 1989
"During our association, Sergeant Knezovich has habitually displayed those qualities seen in only the most outstanding noncommissioned officers. Sergeant Knezovich excelled as a Squad Leader and Senior Medical Aidman. As Squad Leader, Sergeant Knezovich was responsible for the health, welfare, and training of twelve paratroopers. Sergeant Knezovich is a mature soldier who demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical expertise in all endeavors, contributing immeasurably to mission accomplishment of the 429th Medical Company (Ambulance). He is a performer who has proven he can accomplish the most difficult tasks with ease… I strongly recommend Sergeant Ozzie D. Knezovich. He possesses those unique qualities that will enable him to succeed in any work environment."
Thomas M. Bailey, Captain, Medical Service Corps, Commanding; June 1, 1990
"Congratulations on being selected as the Leadership Awardee of Class 3-90 of the Primary Leadership Development Course, Company A, conducted at the United States Army XVIII Airborne Corps Noncommissioned Officer Academy. Earning this title is indicative of your initiative, professional attitude, and desire to set and maintain the highest of standards…Pass on your experience to your subordinates and peers and instill in them the traits of leadership and dedication to duty you have demonstrated in this course."
Trivett Lloyd, CSM, USA, Corps Sergeant Major, December 11, 1989
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Ozzie For Sheriff
Phone: 509-838-6999
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Ozzie Knezovich
P.O. Box 759
Airway Heights, WA 99001
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