STURGIS – A special event happened at the beginning of the Sturgis City Commission's regular meeting Wednesday evening.

A pinning ceremony was held for newly hired Sturgis Director of Public Safety Ryan Banaszak and Deputy Director of Public Safety Andrew Strudwick. Sturgis City Manager Michael Hughes says the ceremony gives the City the opportunity to officially recognize the hard work and dedication of Banaszak and Strudwick to their profession and the City of Sturgis.

Hughes says Banaszak and Strudwick have worked together for many years and compliment each other well. Hughes says he is privileged to know them and work with them, and the City of Sturgis is lucky to have them as the leaders of the Sturgis Police and Fire Departments.

Banaszak had his new badge pinned on him by his wife Rachel, while Strudwick's wife Deanna pinned his new badge on him. Both men had members of their family and friends in attendance Wednesday night for the ceremony.