2006 Lt. James E. McNiell

Lt. McNiell has unselfishly devoted his time and energy to his community and state as an officer of the law and as a private citizen. His honesty and professionalism sets himself apart from his peers.

Professionally, he is a 29 year veteran with the Patrol currently assigned to Troop E. Lt. McNiell handles the daily operations of the Troop E Service Center, is an assistant drug testing officer, handles troop reconstructions and coordinates Troop E's chaplaincy p0rogram. He is responsible for the organization and implementation of the annual Torch Run in Southeast Missouri involving multiple agencies. He is also tenacious in his investigations. Lt. McNiell used the media, reward flyers and good investigative skills to solve a leaving the scene of a fatality accident. His investigation began in December 2003, and the case was closed November 2006. Since 1993, Lt. McNiell coordinates a contingent of officers each year at the Annual Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo, which brings in 40,000 spectators and participants over a four day period.

Personally, Lt. McNiell has been known to assist volunteers selling Torch Run T-shirts while off duty. He is active in the Fellowship Baptist Church in Sikeston, where he has served as a deacon for the past 14 years and serves the church on numerous committees. He has been a member of the Gideon's Organization since 1997. Because of his friendly demeanor and attitude, many have turned to him in their time of need. He is always willing to talk to young people and has established a reputation of being a person groups can call upon when they need a speaker for a special occasion.

It is the feeling of the board of The MASTERS that Lieutenant James E. McNiell embodies what this Public Service Award represents. His actions – both in his professional and personal life – are a credit to himself and to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.