Veterans group honors Aberdeen officer and names Aberdeen 'City of the Year'

Representatives of the local Society of 40/8 presented civic awards during the City of Aberdeen council meeting, honoring Officer Brady Whale as Officer of the Year and naming the city the organization's 2026 City of the Year.

Ron (representing the Society) read a nomination letter praising Officer Whale's proactivity in drug interdiction, recovering stolen property and mentoring other officers. A sergeant's written nomination cited Whale's leadership at briefings and on-scene mentoring; the council and attendees congratulated the officer.

The society's state commander, identified as Garen Chevagor, said the organization has nominated Aberdeen at the state and national levels and will attend the national convention in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where national awards will be judged. He also reminded residents that veterans organizations are finalizing purchase of the Milwaukee Depot, which the group plans to use as a permanent home; the closing was said to be scheduled for June 30.

The veterans group announced community events tied to that effort, including a July 4 pancake feed at the depot from 7 to 10 a.m., free-will donations, and other fundraising to complete renovations.

The council thanked the society for its advocacy and congratulated the award recipients.

What happens next: veterans organizations will finalize the depot closing and continue fundraising and renovation work; the council acknowledged invitations to upcoming recognition events.