Idaho Medal of Honor Recipient
May 8, 2009
Officer Ron Winegar
Boise Police Department

On September 20, 1997, at approximately 1:20 a.m., Boise Police Officer Ron Winegar responded to a call to assist at a traffic stop in the parking lot of the Rider’s Bar in downtown Boise. The two men in the stopped automobile, brothers Craig and Doug Brodrick, defied nearly every command given to them by Boise Police Officers Bryan Hagler and Stephen Van Doren. 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, and, though wounded, Officer Winegar continued to return fire. Doug Brodrick emerged from the passenger door of the automobile and opened fire, fatally wounding Officer Stall. Despite his severe wounds, Officer Winegar continued to focus on the fight as he kept cover on one of the suspects in an effort to protect his fellow officers. Officer Winegar’s exemplary spirit of selflessness, extraordinary courage in the face of extreme danger, and 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 Ron Winegar’s Official Medal of Honor Citation >>>