Armed with a firearm at a Tamworth home, a high-risk situation forced four officers to draw their weapons.
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Their bravery and response in the minutes that followed was commended by the state's coroner, and on Wednesday, recognised by the force.
The Commander's commendation was awarded to Sergeant Tim Ginman, and Senior Constables Garry Irvine, Michael Rainbow and Tony Wolds, for their actions in a critical incident in December 2015.
The police service, which was held at Oxley High School in front of several school children, heard the officers were confronted with a man armed with a firearm and the "officers drew their weapons and quickly took cover".
The person of interest later turned the gun on himself but the NSW Deputy State Coroner "commended" the four officers for the actions and bravery.
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Similarly, Sergeant Darren Wallington and Senior Constable Scott O'Brien were honoured for their work in dealing with a siege that unfolded in Wee Waa.
The officers arrived to find a man had barricaded himself in. They started negotiations but the man had doused himself in fuel. Their work saw the situation successfully resolved and the suspect taken into custody, unharmed.
Officers from Wee Waa, Narrabri, Gunnedah, Tamworth and across the wider Oxley district were recognised for their brave actions as well as the years they've dedicated to the force - some of whom notched up 10, 20 and 30 years in the job.
Oxley Acting Superintendent Kylie Endemi said policing was a challenging and difficult job, and took a toll on not only officers, but their families too.
We are charged with dealing with the worst tragedies, bringing criminals to justice and keeping our communities safe.
- Oxley Acting Superintendent Kylie Endemi
"We are charged with dealing with the worst tragedies, bringing criminals to justice and keeping our communities safe," she told the crowd.
"No doubt it involves the worst society has to offer ... but it is rewarding."
Acting Superintendent Endemi said the "positive impact on those that need assistance" and the ability of police to work in "our communities to make it a better place" was why each of the officers do what they do, day in and day out.
"Thank you for your diligent service ... for always going above and beyond," she told the officers.
"I am extremely proud to work day in and day out with each and everyone of you."
Western Region top cop, Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie praised the officers who "look after our communities, make people safe".
"These officers here in Oxley do that in spades," he said.
"Everyday our police are there ... helping our communities and making them safer for our people."