The Clanton Police Department Explorers Post held its annual awards banquet Sept. 10.

The explorer program is a volunteer group that brings youth in close contact with police officers.

Officer David Hicks serves as director and told the crowd that in his seven years with the organization that this year was one of his most difficult years, due to the deaths of a couple of members.

The Explorers held their memorial ceremony for one of its members who passed away this year, Terry Ragsdale, who served as an auxiliary member and acted as chaperone.

Awards were also given out for physical fitness, lifesaver, academic performance, attendance and explorer of the year.

Stevie Burges was given the Explorer of the Year Award.

“I am proud of all their accomplishments and what Officer Hicks has done to build our explorer program,” said Police Chief Brian Stilwell.