Idaho Medal of Honor Recipient
August 18, 2021
Sergeant Justin Anderson
Post Falls Police Department

On the evening of March 3, 2020, Post Falls Police Department Sergeant Justin Anderson was conducting surveillance at the residence of a wanted individual who was potentially armed. Soon after Sgt. Anderson arrived in the area, a person exited the residence wearing a face covering. As Sgt. Anderson moved closer to try to gain a better visual of the person, a dog aggressively approached him, temporarily diverting his attention away from the individual exiting the residence. When he determined the dog was not a threat, Sgt. Anderson scanned the area and discovered the individual had taken a kneeling position behind a garbage can. Sgt. Anderson yelled to the person to show his hands, at which point the individual fired a weapon, hitting Sgt. Anderson in the abdomen. Sgt. Anderson returned fire and was able to retreat to his patrol car. He contacted dispatch and other officers to provide them with the information necessary to establish a perimeter and prevent the suspect’s escape. Sgt. Anderson also rendered self-aid until he was evacuated by responding officers. The suspect re-entered the residence and ultimately took his own life.

Through indomitable courage, complete disregard for his own safety, and profound concern for the safety of others, Sgt. Justin Anderson showed great determination and bravery. Sgt. Anderson’s extraordinary heroism and intrepidity, with danger to his own life above and beyond the call of duty, are in the highest traditions of the Post Falls Police Department and Idaho law enforcement.