Michael Garbo Foundation - Metro Police Academy

METRO POLICE ACADEMY

MICHAEL GARBO FIREARMS AWARD

The Metro Nashville Police Department Firearms Award is now named the Michael Garbo Firearms Award. Michael received this award as the top recruit in 1993.

Michael was able to further his career with Metro as an officer in different capacities. He joined SWAT, the Crime Suppression Unit, and became a Drug Interdiction Officer. All are part of the team to serve the public.

Michael left the Metro Police Department in 2004 and became a Drug Enforcement Agent in 2005, where he was assigned to the Phoenix Division, which encompassed Nogales and Tucson, AZ. Michael further committed to going to Kabul, Afghanistan, in 2009 for two years to assist on the global level of Drug Enforcement.

Michael became a Drug Enforcement Group Supervisor in 2018 for the DEA office in Tucson, AZ. He trained and mentored men and women in other Law Enforcement Agencies around the country, helping them improve their professional careers. His dedication to his profession became a symbol for others to strive for.

Memorial Plaque Presentation

On October 3, 2023, Mrs. Vida Garbo and Samuel (Brian) Johnson had the honor of presenting a memorial plaque to Chief Drake and the Academy staff on behalf of the Garbo family in memory of Michael. This plaque serves as a lasting tribute to commemorate Michael's time with the Metro Police Department, where he left a profound impact on the lives of many.

In 1993, Michael began his journey as a recruit at the Metro Police Academy, and his dedication and skill were evident as he graduated as the recipient of the top gun firearms award. Michael's commitment to law enforcement led him to Nashville, where he embarked on a distinguished career from 1993 to 2021. During his tenure in Nashville from 1993 to 2005, Michael made significant contributions as a member of the Crime Suppression Unit, a SWAT team member, and a co-founder of the Drug Interdiction Unit within the 20th Drug Task Force.

Michael's influence extended beyond his role as an officer; he became a mentor, instructor, and friend to many within the police department. He held the Metro Police Department in high regard and took great pride in starting his law enforcement journey there.

Michael received numerous achievements and awards throughout his career for his outstanding performance. However, Michael's true measure of success lay in his ability to be a team player and share credit with his colleagues. He possessed a humble inner quality that defined his character. Michael was a leader who led from the front and always looked out for the well-being of his team—a TRAIT I WISH TO YOU ALL.

Chief Drake had addressed Mrs. Garbo and stated that he would ensure this memorial plaque would be hung at the academy facility where Michael had trained and taught others.

This gesture ensures that Michael's legacy will continue to inspire future law enforcement officers as they embark on their journeys of service and dedication.