JENNINGS — A Jennings police officer was recognized Tuesday for his bravery in intervening to save the life of a distraught Hathaway man during an early morning standoff last month.

Police Chief Todd D’Albor, who witnessed the officer’s actions, presented the officer of the quarter award and a letter of commendation to Detective Terrie Guillory for going “above and beyond the call of duty” in responding to the standoff involving an armed suspect.

“Detective Guillory got himself out from the line of cover and was able to grab a hold of the young man and what I feel saved lives that day,” D’Albor said. “It changed the course of events.

The armed suspect was threatening law enforcement officers and himself, but Guillory was able to talk to the man and grab the weapon before anyone was harmed, D’Albor said.

Guillory, who has been in law enforcement since 1989 working for the Jeff Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lake Arthur Police Department and most recently the Jennings Police Department, was a bit embarrassed by all the attention.

“I just feel like I was just the right person at the right time,” he said Tuesday. “I don’t feel like I deserve all the attention.”

Looking back, Guillory said he would not have done anything differently.

“I’m glad it worked out the way it did,” he said. “He needed someone to talk to and it happened to be me.”

In a letter of commendation, Capt. Winston Guillory described Guillory’s actions and wrote, “I think that is what true American heroes are made of.”

Guillory was also hailed by the Jennings Lions Club, which presented him with a certificate and $250 check.

“When I read the story in the newspaper, I was deeply moved,” Lions Club member Troy Trahan said. “Every day you guys go out there and put your lives on the line. “

City Council President Stevie VanHook also recognized Guillory.

“Your service has indeed been above and beyond the call of duty,” VanHook said. “It could have be a real tragedy. We are honored to have you as an officer and a citizen of the community.”

Jennings Police Chief Todd D’Albor