VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — On August 23, Senator Jon Ford (R) presented Vigo County Sheriff John Plasse with a Sagamore of the Wabash Award for Plasse’s commitment to protecting Hoosiers and our communities.
The Sagamore of the Wabash Award is an honorary award in Indiana. The award was created during Governor Ralph Gates’ term, dating back to the 1940’s.
The term “sagamore” was used by the American Indian Tribes of the northeastern United States to describe a lesser chief or a great man among the tribe. Someone the true chief would look to for wisdom and advice.
“John has more than 30 years of law enforcement experience,” Ford said. “Prior to becoming Vigo County’s sheriff in 2019, he served as a member of the Terre Haute Police Department, and also served as a member of the Indiana Army National Guard.”
Sherriff Plasse says he shares the award with the dedicated individuals who he has worked with along the way.
I’m humbled and honored to be recognized by the state of Indiana and Governor Holcomb with the Sagamore of the Wabash Valley award. I don’t feel I am deserving of this award as I have worked with many great people and leaders over the years to help keep our Country and communities safe. I have been blessed to serve in the capacities I have for 40 years and could not have achieved any of the successes I have without the dedicated individuals who have worked with me along the way. They are the reason I am able to be recognized with this award and I share it with them.
John Plasse – Vigo County Sheriff
Each Governor since Gates has presented the award in their own way. There is no record of the total number which have been presented, as each governor has kept his own roll.
