Trollinger Law LLC has announced the 2026 winners of its annual Hometown Heroes Awards, now in its fifth year. The awards recognize first responders in Charles County and Southern Maryland for their dedication to the communities they serve. The announcement matters because it brings attention to the often-unheralded work of emergency personnel and underscores the role of local businesses in fostering community appreciation.
The 2026 honorees are John Edelen, Jason Posey, and William L. Smith, Jr. Each has demonstrated exceptional commitment to public safety and community service. Sgt. John Edelen has served with the Maryland State Police for more than 26 years, working in patrol, K9, and Internal Affairs. He has been named Supervisor of the Year 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.
Jason Posey is a retired police lieutenant and U.S. Marine Corps veteran. He served four years on active duty, including two overseas campaign tours, and then spent over 21 years with the La Plata Police Department before retiring in August 2026. He held leadership roles as Honor Guard Commander and Administrative Commander and helped establish the department's Police Explorer and Cadet youth programs. Posey continues to volunteer throughout Southern Maryland.
Chief William L. Smith, Jr. has more than four decades of service in fire and emergency medical services. 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 and is a past president of the Maryland Fire Chiefs Association. Smith leads the Charles County High School Fire-Rescue Cadet Program, mentoring young people pursuing emergency services careers.
According to personal injury lawyer Matt Trollinger, founder of Trollinger Law LLC, first responders show up in the middle of a crisis, providing help and support when people need it most. He noted that they do not act for accolades or pay but because they want to help, which he called the definition of a Hometown Hero. The firm's recognition of these individuals serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders and the importance of community support.
Trollinger Law LLC represents injured people in Southern Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia in workers' compensation and personal injury matters, including car accidents, truck accidents, slip-and-fall accidents, wrongful death, and medical malpractice. The firm has offices in Waldorf, La Plata, and Frederick, Maryland, and offers free consultations. The Hometown Heroes Awards reflect the firm's broader commitment to the community it serves, highlighting the positive impact of first responders and the value of acknowledging their contributions.
