Members of the Baytown Police Department serve and protect our community every day. They are our first responders, who rapidly respond to dangerous situations. They are also our heroes, who confidently walk into harm’s way to save others. Detective Haley Hammes is no different.
Police Chief John Stringer presented Detective Hammes with the Life Saving Award during last week’s City Council meeting. It was for her efforts to save Precinct 3 Assistant Chief Deputy Clint Greenwood five years ago.
Back on April 3, 2017, Hammes, an officer at the time, responded to a call about a shooting in the parking lot of the Precinct 3 Harris County Courthouse Annex on Baker Road. When she arrived, she found Chief Deputy Greenwood, who had been shot. Hammes, unaware of where the shooter might be, used her paramedic skills to help the seriously injured Greenwood. She then rushed him to an ambulance where paramedics took over the life-saving efforts. After making sure Greenwood was being cared for, Hammes rushed back to the scene of the shooting to assist in the manhunt for the suspect.
Sadly, Chief Deputy Greenwood passed away later that day despite valiant efforts to save his life.
Chief Stringer said, “Officer Hammes exemplified courage, initiative, leadership, and dedication. Without hesitation, she deliberately charged into a very dynamic and emotionally charged situation, while maintaining situational awareness and her uncanny ability to lead up the chain of command. She had laser focus trying to provide Chief Deputy Greenwood his best chance to survive the ambush he encountered. Officer Haley Hammes’ actions and dedication to her sworn duties are praiseworthy. They reflect very highly upon her skills, training, and professionalism while bringing great credit to herself and the Baytown Police Department.”
After presenting Detective Hammes with the Life Saving Award, Chief Stringer unexpectedly honored her with a salute, the ultimate compliment for her heroic efforts. Hammes left the City Council chambers to applause and support from City Council and other community members.
We want to honor the legacy of Chief Deputy Greenwood. We also thank Detective Hammes for her life-saving efforts that difficult day in 2017 as well as every day since, as she continues to serve and protect our community.