Fairfield Police Department Detective Caleb Koker received special recognition as a hero salute honoree during last Friday’s Chicago Blackhawks vs. Columbus Blue Jackets hockey game at the United Center in Chicago. The ceremony, presented in front of over 20,000 fans, typically honors one active military member and one retiree at each game, sometimes including additional nominees. Koker was recognized alongside a Navy veteran from the Chicago area.
Detective Koker, who has served in the military since 2012, spent eight years on active duty before joining the Illinois Army National Guard. He currently holds the rank of Chief Warrant Officer II. His nomination for the honor came through the Illinois Public Affairs Officer following his recent return from deployment in October.
The recognition included a special presentation by the game’s national anthem singer,Jim Cornelison, a renowned performer at major sporting events such as the Indy 500, Bears games, and Blackhawks games. The singer, known for his support of the military, presented Koker with a Challenge Coin during the event. The Blackhawks organization also provided Koker with memorable experiences, including a warm-up puck, a visit to the penalty box, and seats for his family to attend the game.
Detective Koker expressed his appreciation for the warm reception and support he received from the Chicago community, noting that numerous attendees personally thanked him for his service. The experience, he said, left him with a positive impression of the Chicago area’s respect for military and law enforcement personnel.