A Wareham Police lieutenant was named Massachusetts Emergency Manager of the year by the Northeast States Emergency Consortium at its annual meeting in Worcester on May 28.

Lieutenant John Walcek serves as the Deputy Emergency Management Director for Wareham, and was recognized for putting together a Local Emergency Planning Committee.

The committee is made up of local first responders and emergency personnel, and is used to coordinate responses to  storms and other emergencies that can involve multiple public safety agencies.

Due largely in part to the cooperation of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy Emergency Management Degree Internship program, the Wareham Local Emergrncy Planning Committee was certified at the highest level of state certification by the Massachusetts Emergency management Agency (MEMA), Wareham Police said.

Local coordinator for the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, Doug Forbes, praised Walcek's work.

"Lt. John Walcek is one of the finest public safety officials that I have ever worked with. His Comprehensive Emergency Management plan is among the best in the country."

Chief Stanley praised Walcek as well, and said the award reflects the efforts of everyone on the committee.

"The leadership and vision of Lt. Walcek, as recognized by MEMA, has shown the Commonwealth that the town of Wareham values the highest levels of preparedness and professionalism," said Stanley.