With a look of surprise and great pride, Officer Carl Nehls accepted the 2004 RDU Employee of the Year Award. The award, presented at the recent RDU Airport Authority Employee Service Awards ceremony, was given to Nehls and his K-9 partner, Trouble. Officer Nehls and Trouble are members of the RDU Law Enforcement K-9 Team. He has been with RDU since August 1998. Nehls is a nationally accredited bomb detection dog handler through the North American Police Dog Association.

Nominated by more than one of his colleagues, Officer Nehls is known for his professionalism, dedication and caring heart. His colleagues noted that taking on a bomb detection dog requires continuous training each and every day, including 24-hour availability during the busy holiday travel seasons and VIP visits. Nehls is a great airport ambassador through his involvement with children and the Wake County Animal Control Shelter.

A quote from Officer Nehls' nomination form says it best, “Being Employee of the Year is not meant to fall on those who just do their job, and although Carl would humbly say he is just doing his job — he sets a fine example for all to follow. He has made a difference in the world, and it is because of that difference that he should be named Employee of the Year.”

Congratulations also go out to Bill and Barb Sharpe who were named RDU's 2004 Volunteers of the Year. They have both served over four years as Volunteer Ambassadors and have logged in over 1,900 volunteer hours. From helping RDU travelers to assisting with airport special projects, the Sharpes are ready and willing to take on any task.

From this year on, the award will be known as the Larry Clark Volunteer of the Year award. Clark was a volunteer for seven years at RDU and 2002 Volunteer of the Year. He passed away last year. This award honors his dedication and service to RDU.

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