Department of Marine Resources Commissioner Patrick Keliher presented the annual Employee and Manager of the Year Awards during DMR’s recent annual meeting on Burnt Island in Boothbay Harbor.

The Employee of the Year award went to Marine Mechanic Specialist Timothy Bennett and the Manager of the Year award was presented to Marine Patrol Sergeant Mark Murry.

Bennett was nominated for the honor by Marine Patrol Captain Colin MacDonald, and Kohl Kanwit, Director of the department’s Bureau of Public Health and Aquaculture.

In presenting the award, Commissioner Keliher praised Bennett’s skill and professionalism. “Tim is an outstanding employee,” said Keliher. “As the department’s watercraft mechanic, Tim is a consummate professional, communicates extremely well, and has taken on responsibilities beyond his job requirements.”

In his remarks, Commissioner Keliher pointed out that Bennett’s unique skills allowed him to refit an old boat hull into a functional vessel for the aquaculture inspection team, saving the department $50,000. “He can fix everything,” added Commissioner Keliher. “Without Tim, we’d surely be in dry dock,” said Keliher.

In his letter of support for the nomination, Captain MacDonald acknowledged Bennett’s extraordinary dedication. “Within the past year, Tim was faced with the challenge of taking on the responsibilities of two mechanics when he found himself the sole employee of the watercraft facility. This only served to increase Tim’s already strong work ethic,” wrote Captain MacDonald. “He arrives early, leaves late, and works tirelessly to ensure all departmental watercraft are fully operational and safe.”

Sergeant Murry, who oversees Marine Patrol Officers in the busy stretch of Maine coast from Harrington to Calais, was praised by Commissioner Keliher for his longstanding commitment to excellence. “Sergeant Murry exemplifies superior leadership professionalism,” said Commissioner Keliher. “His unwavering commitment to his co-workers and community members defines him as a Marine Patrol Sergeant. Sergeant Murry embodies the very best of the Maine Marine Patrol.”

In his nomination, Marine Patrol Sergeant Jeff Turcotte applauded Murry, a 25-year veteran of the Maine Marine Patrol, for his mentorship of other Officers. “As a Sergeant, Mark has excelled as a leader, educator and friend to Marine Patrol Officers and other Marine Patrol Sergeants,” wrote Sergeant Turcotte. “Mark’s calming demeanor and thoroughness is extremely helpful in high stress situations.”

Sergeant Turcotte also highlighted the numerous awards Sergeant Murry has received. “During his career, Sergeant Murry has received the Maine Lobstermen’s Association Marine Patrol Officer of the Year, Marine Patrol Lifesaving Award, the Commissioner’s Letter of Appreciation, and the Washington County Officer of the Year Award,” wrote Sergeant Turcotte. “His exceptional knowledge, leadership, and commitment make him a valuable asset to our organization and the State of Maine.”