The Kansas American Legion names a Garden City police officer its "Officer of the Year."

It's the second time the honor is going to Officer Bill Powers, who says his peers and the Garden City community mean everything to him.

"The people in this community, I consider them family," Powers says.

Powers has served as a sergeant for the Garden City Police Department for more than 20 years. The Kansas American Legion says his dedication for helping other officers cope with difficulties is one reason he's being honored.

"Officers have to respond to some very traumatic incidents and the officers have to stand tall and be rocks," Powers says. "People forget really quick that they are human beings and things do bother them. I don't want those officers to have to carry that baggage anymore."

Powers says he hopes to inspire others to wok as a team and help each other out when a team member is in need.