2025 Veteran of The Year Awarded to Jeffery Fitts During Elks Lodge Dinner

Retired Police Officer for the City of Cortland Police Department, Jeffery Fitts, was this year’s recipient of the 2025 Veteran of the Year. He was presented the award during Monday evening’s Veterans Day Dinner at the Cortland Elks Lodge.

According to Cortland Police, Fitts served 4 years in the army with 2 deployments in Iraq. While serving, he completed Ranger School and earned the rank of Sergeant. Following his service for his country, he returned to Cortland and was a police officer for 18 years.

“During his career Jeff impacted the community in countless ways. His dedication to community service, charity, and children in the community continues on to this day.” Cortland Police say.

Fitts retired from the Cortland Police Department back on May 16th of this year. He served in numerous roles within the department including a Defensive Tactics Instructor, Physical Fitness Instructor, ASP Instructor, tactical team member, field training officer, bike patrol officer, and a highly motivated Patrol Officer. He additionally served as the long-time Police Benevolent Association (PBA) President where he worked nonstop for fundraising campaigns and volunteer efforts.