Trollinger Law LLC has announced the 2026 winners of its annual Hometown Heroes Awards, marking the fifth year the firm has recognized first responders in Charles County and Southern Maryland. The awards honor individuals who go beyond their professional duties to strengthen their communities. This year's winners are John Edelen, Jason Posey, and William L. Smith, Jr., each with decades of service and volunteerism.
"First responders show up in the middle of a crisis, providing help and support to people when they need it most," says personal injury lawyer Matt Trollinger, founder of Trollinger Law LLC. "They don't do it for the accolades or the paycheck. They do it because they want to help. To our firm, that's the definition of a Hometown Hero." The awards matter because they publicly acknowledge the sacrifices and community-building efforts of first responders, whose work often goes unnoticed despite its critical importance to public safety and social cohesion.
Sgt. John Edelen has served with the Maryland State Police for over 26 years in patrol, K9, and Internal Affairs. He has earned Supervisor of the Year honors five times and Trooper of the Year twice. Beyond law enforcement, Edelen coaches youth soccer and supports programs like Christmas Shop with a Cop and No Hunger November, demonstrating how first responders can be catalysts for community welfare.
Jason Posey, a retired police lieutenant and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served four years on active duty with two overseas campaign tours before joining the La Plata Police Department for more than 21 years, retiring in August 2026. He was Honor Guard Commander and Administrative Commander, and his volunteer work includes Toys for Tots and establishing Police Explorer and Cadet youth programs. Posey's recognition underscores the lasting impact of veterans who continue serving their communities after military and law enforcement careers.
Chief William L. Smith, Jr. brings over four decades of fire and EMS service. Since 2013, he has been Fire/EMS Coordinator and Public Information Officer for Charles County's volunteer fire and EMS associations, supporting about 1,200 active and retired first responders. He also serves as department fire chief of the West Lanham Hills Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad, is a past president of the Maryland Fire Chiefs Association, and leads the Charles County High School Fire-Rescue Cadet Program, mentoring future first responders.
The implications of these awards extend beyond individual honors. By celebrating first responders, Trollinger Law LLC reinforces the value of community service and encourages others to contribute. The firm's practice in workers' compensation and personal injury aligns with this commitment to supporting people in times of need. Recognizing hometown heroes also fosters a culture of appreciation and inspires future generations to pursue careers in emergency services.
