Idaho Medal of Honor Recipient
May 8, 2009
Officer Stephen D. Van Doren
Boise Police Department

On September 20, 1997, at approximately 1:20 a.m., Boise Police Officer Stephen Van Doren and his partner, Officer Bryan Hagler, stopped a suspicious automobile in the parking lot of the Rider’s Bar in downtown Boise. The two men in the automobile, brothers Craig and Doug Brodrick, displayed belligerent and aggressive behavior as they repeatedly defied Officer Hagler’s commands. With Officers Dale Rogers, Ron Winegar, Gary Wiggins, Mark Stall, and Rob Berrier present, Craig Brodrick was commanded three times to raise his jacket and turn around. Each time, he responded, “I don’t think so!” Sweeping his jacket back, he drew a gun from a holster on his hip and began shooting at the officers, hitting Officer Winegar. A gun battle ensued. Doug Brodrick emerged from the passenger door of the automobile and opened fire, fatally wounding Officer Stall. Officer Van Doren played a vital role in helping to end the threat by holding his ground in the worst of circumstances. Believing Officer Rogers was pinned down by the suspects’ gun fire, Officer Van Doren stepped from behind cover in order to return fire and provide protection for Officer Rogers. Officer Van Doren’s selfless act of heroism and indomitable courage in the face of extreme danger and his profound concern for his fellow officers, without regard for his own life, above and beyond the call of duty, are in the highest traditions of the Boise Police Department and of Idaho law enforcement and reflect great credit upon himself, the Boise Police Department, and all Idaho law enforcement officers.

Read Officer Stephen D. Van Doren’s Official Medal of Honor Citation >>>