SOUTH PORTLAND – The South Portland Police Department has named John Bostwick its Officer of the Year for 2013.

Bostwick, who works the 7 a.m.-3 p.m. shift on Patrol Team A, was nominated three times for Officer of the Month during the preceding year, winning that award twice. That put him at the head of the pack for the annual award, given by the police department’s lieutenants and sergeants, who chose from among the monthly honorees.

Bostwick previously won the Officer of the Year Award in 1988, two years after joining the department.

“So, he has been a consistently outstanding police officer for this city,” said Police Chief Edward J. Googins, when presenting Bostwick with the award at the Feb. 3 City Council meeting.

“In the 27 years that Officer Bostwick has served the city of South Portland, he has accumulated vast experience in dealing with the myriad of human trials and tribulations that officers encounter throughout their career,” said Googins. “These challenges have a tendency to lead to a hardening of the soul in order to cope with the job’s demands, but Officer Bostwick has managed to avoid this pitfall and retain a genuine compassion and empathy for all those he encounters who are suffering a personal loss, struggling with a mental illness, or simply overburdened by everyday pressures.

“He remains an enthusiastic officer, who works hard every day and brings a contagious energy to his patrol team, where he supports and encourages his younger fellow officers,” said Googins. “They are quick to point out his strong communication skills and excellent ability to resolve conflict.”

As Officer of the Year, Bostwick will receive two days off with pay, a personalized plaque, and an award pin. He also was recognized by a special proclamation of the South Portland City Council at its Feb. 3 meeting.

John Bostwick has been named 2013 Officer of the Year for the South Portland Police Department.