Gary Wikman
Fairfield Police Department
Fairfield, CT
Gary Wikman was nominated by Alethe Fatherley of American Classic.
Officer Wikman has dedicated his life to serving and protecting others, both in uniform and in his community. A longtime police officer with the Fairfield, CT Police Department, Officer Wikman also spent more than 30 years volunteering with the town’s Police Athletic League (PAL). Through this role, he mentored countless local youth, organized fishing trips, played baseball, and led recreational activities that fostered trust, personal growth, and positive relationships between young people and law enforcement.
Officer Wikman’s belief in the importance of outdoor activity for both physical and mental well-being inspired much of his community involvement. His commitment to helping youth thrive extends well beyond his official duties—many local families remember his generosity and warmth, including personally inviting neighbors and their children to join in fishing outings, even after town programs had ended.
A dedicated public servant with a big heart, Officer Wikman continues to look out for those around him. His legacy of community engagement lives on not only in the youth he mentored, but also in his two sons, who have followed in his footsteps to become police officers themselves.